Transgender Therapists in Westmont, IL
Asking for help can be challenging, but I want to assure you that seeking assistance can be incredibly rewarding and beneficial. As your therapist, my goal is to meet you where you are, gently encourage personal growth, and provide a safe space for you to express yourself. I am honored to help you shape the story of your life. I understand that everyone has their own pace and readiness, and I will never push you beyond what you're prepared for. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I will ask you questions to help you explore and overcome the obstacles that are holding you back from progressing in your journey.
Asking for help can be challenging, but I want to assure you that seeking assistance can be incredibly rewarding and beneficial. As your therapist, my goal is to meet you where you are, gently encourage personal growth, and provide a safe space for you to express yourself. I am honored to help you shape the story of your life. I understand that everyone has their own pace and readiness, and I will never push you beyond what you're prepared for. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I will ask you questions to help you explore and overcome the obstacles that are holding you back from progressing in your journey.
Eryn Smith-Moeller, LCPC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CDVP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westmont, IL 60559
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that getting to the root of the problem--not just managing symptoms-- is key to transformation. I enjoy being part of the healing process; empowering people to discover their own capacity for growth and change. I believe each of us already holds the keys to our highest good. I have helped a range of people, men, women, teens, and members of the LGBTQ community, examine their lives from new perspectives and discover new solutions. I would love to help YOU blossom! My passion is helping people navigate a path to safety, wholeness & healing.
I believe that getting to the root of the problem--not just managing symptoms-- is key to transformation. I enjoy being part of the healing process; empowering people to discover their own capacity for growth and change. I believe each of us already holds the keys to our highest good. I have helped a range of people, men, women, teens, and members of the LGBTQ community, examine their lives from new perspectives and discover new solutions. I would love to help YOU blossom! My passion is helping people navigate a path to safety, wholeness & healing.
Erin Braden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westmont, IL 60559 (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Clients! I aim to build a safe and supportive space for growth, handling difficult emotions and strengthening self-compassion. I strive to help clients understand and increase their own ability to navigate life's obstacles. I am a very open-minded practitioner and integrate a range of approaches into my practice to fit what works best for you. You are the expert on you and my job is to support you in your experience, you are not alone. If this sounds like it might be a good fit for you, please do not hesitate to reach out. I look forward to working with you!
Now Accepting New Clients! I aim to build a safe and supportive space for growth, handling difficult emotions and strengthening self-compassion. I strive to help clients understand and increase their own ability to navigate life's obstacles. I am a very open-minded practitioner and integrate a range of approaches into my practice to fit what works best for you. You are the expert on you and my job is to support you in your experience, you are not alone. If this sounds like it might be a good fit for you, please do not hesitate to reach out. I look forward to working with you!
Pamela Pawelski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westmont, IL 60559 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety or having panic attacks? Do you notice tightness in your chest or have difficulty breathing in certain situations? Are you feeling overwhelmed when dealing with life’s challenges? You have the ability to heal and find inner peace and acceptance. I’m not just a talk therapist. I use techniques beyond traditional talk therapy to tap into the parts of you that aren't always accessible through words.
Are you struggling with anxiety or having panic attacks? Do you notice tightness in your chest or have difficulty breathing in certain situations? Are you feeling overwhelmed when dealing with life’s challenges? You have the ability to heal and find inner peace and acceptance. I’m not just a talk therapist. I use techniques beyond traditional talk therapy to tap into the parts of you that aren't always accessible through words.
Katie Gilly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westmont, IL 60559 (Online Only)
Hi there! I'm a Relationship and Sex therapist with over a decade of experience. I specialize in helping neurodivergent individuals and couples find joy and fulfillment in their relationships. My clients always tell me that my authentic spirit is soothing and helps them to feel seen, heard, and accepted. In each person's journey, I strive to foster an atmosphere of safety where different voices can be harmoniously expressed. As a result of my work, many of my clients have reported feeling more empowered in their lives and relationships.
Hi there! I'm a Relationship and Sex therapist with over a decade of experience. I specialize in helping neurodivergent individuals and couples find joy and fulfillment in their relationships. My clients always tell me that my authentic spirit is soothing and helps them to feel seen, heard, and accepted. In each person's journey, I strive to foster an atmosphere of safety where different voices can be harmoniously expressed. As a result of my work, many of my clients have reported feeling more empowered in their lives and relationships.
Infinite Within Counseling & Divorce Mediation
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westmont, IL 60559
I feel that the most important component of every successful therapy outcome is the therapeutic relationship between therapist and client. Trust, safety, empathy, and authenticity should be experienced within the relationship. These relationship qualities create an environment conducive to working on life’s issues and feeling comfortable throughout the process of change. I take a collaborative approach to therapy to meet the goals presented by my clients. My style is interactive and my treatment orientation is tailored to each individual client to meet their individual needs and to fit with their unique personalities.
I feel that the most important component of every successful therapy outcome is the therapeutic relationship between therapist and client. Trust, safety, empathy, and authenticity should be experienced within the relationship. These relationship qualities create an environment conducive to working on life’s issues and feeling comfortable throughout the process of change. I take a collaborative approach to therapy to meet the goals presented by my clients. My style is interactive and my treatment orientation is tailored to each individual client to meet their individual needs and to fit with their unique personalities.
Baiba Davydenkovas is a bilingual Licensed Social Worker in Illinois, practicing since 2018. She brings a multicultural, diverse, and non-judgmental approach to her work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. Baiba earned her bachelor’s degree in Latvia in 2020 and graduated from Aurora University with her LSW. With over four years of experience, she specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and realistic interventions. Baiba helps clients connect with their undiscovered strengths and resources, encouraging them to find hope and resilience after loss, divorce, depression, trauma, abuse, life-altering experiences.
Baiba Davydenkovas is a bilingual Licensed Social Worker in Illinois, practicing since 2018. She brings a multicultural, diverse, and non-judgmental approach to her work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. Baiba earned her bachelor’s degree in Latvia in 2020 and graduated from Aurora University with her LSW. With over four years of experience, she specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and realistic interventions. Baiba helps clients connect with their undiscovered strengths and resources, encouraging them to find hope and resilience after loss, divorce, depression, trauma, abuse, life-altering experiences.
Stephanie Popp, LCPC, specializes in traumatic experiences, sexual issues, ADHD, and relationship concerns. Stephanie received her undergraduate degree in psychology from University of Illinois at Chicago and her masters degree in clinical mental health counseling from Governors State University. She spent 10 years working with high risk youth, who had been human trafficked, experienced sexual trauma, or had offending behaviors. Stephanie enjoys working with the entire lifespan, especially adolescents and adults 50+. She will use a fully collaborative approach.
Stephanie Popp, LCPC, specializes in traumatic experiences, sexual issues, ADHD, and relationship concerns. Stephanie received her undergraduate degree in psychology from University of Illinois at Chicago and her masters degree in clinical mental health counseling from Governors State University. She spent 10 years working with high risk youth, who had been human trafficked, experienced sexual trauma, or had offending behaviors. Stephanie enjoys working with the entire lifespan, especially adolescents and adults 50+. She will use a fully collaborative approach.
Dr. Kirsten Raether is a Post Doctoral Fellow in Illinois. She received her B.S. in Psychology from Illinois State University and then went on to receive her M.Ed. and Psy.D. in School Psychology from the APA-accredited Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. Dr. Raether is also a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP). She completed her pre-doctoral internship through the University of Arizona Psychology Internship Consortium, where she worked for Tucson Unified School District in both primary and secondary schools.
Dr. Kirsten Raether is a Post Doctoral Fellow in Illinois. She received her B.S. in Psychology from Illinois State University and then went on to receive her M.Ed. and Psy.D. in School Psychology from the APA-accredited Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. Dr. Raether is also a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP). She completed her pre-doctoral internship through the University of Arizona Psychology Internship Consortium, where she worked for Tucson Unified School District in both primary and secondary schools.
Lakeithia Butler
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Westmont, IL 60559
Lakeithia Butler, LCPC, creates a safe place for clients to express, process, and cope with their emotions and experiences. She helps adults develop realistic alternatives to their struggles. Lakeithia earned a BA from Western Illinois University and an MA in clinical mental health from Chicago State University. Her background includes roles as a counseling supervisor and psychotherapist serving clients of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, and more. In therapy, Lakeithia incorporates CBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, trauma informed care, and more.
Lakeithia Butler, LCPC, creates a safe place for clients to express, process, and cope with their emotions and experiences. She helps adults develop realistic alternatives to their struggles. Lakeithia earned a BA from Western Illinois University and an MA in clinical mental health from Chicago State University. Her background includes roles as a counseling supervisor and psychotherapist serving clients of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, and more. In therapy, Lakeithia incorporates CBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, trauma informed care, and more.
Krystal Ransom's therapy style is distinguished by her delivery and readiness to help. Krystal utilizes narrative therapy, CBT, and play therapy and sets steps to reach client goals by focusing on what can be controlled and celebrating any successes. Krystal has 6 years of experience working with children particularly in the educational setting. Her passions are helping children, adolescents, and young adults find the individual coping skills that help live their life fully again. Krystal earned her LSW from Loyola University Chicago in children and family therapy.
Krystal Ransom's therapy style is distinguished by her delivery and readiness to help. Krystal utilizes narrative therapy, CBT, and play therapy and sets steps to reach client goals by focusing on what can be controlled and celebrating any successes. Krystal has 6 years of experience working with children particularly in the educational setting. Her passions are helping children, adolescents, and young adults find the individual coping skills that help live their life fully again. Krystal earned her LSW from Loyola University Chicago in children and family therapy.
Each of us is a story, waiting for a devoted reader who will take us off the shelf and embrace all our plot twists. I believe each client is the expert in their own story and I strive to provide a warm and non-judgmental space to allow them to feel safe to explore those chapters as they are ready. I work collaboratively with each client on identifying realistic and attainable goals to their treatment that they can implement into their daily life to allow healing, growth and taking back control. I employ a holistic approach to mental health to allow clients to see themselves as a whole person and not just their diagnosis.
Each of us is a story, waiting for a devoted reader who will take us off the shelf and embrace all our plot twists. I believe each client is the expert in their own story and I strive to provide a warm and non-judgmental space to allow them to feel safe to explore those chapters as they are ready. I work collaboratively with each client on identifying realistic and attainable goals to their treatment that they can implement into their daily life to allow healing, growth and taking back control. I employ a holistic approach to mental health to allow clients to see themselves as a whole person and not just their diagnosis.
Emily Spaargaren, a compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois, creates a safe and welcoming space for clients seeking support and understanding. Emily received an undergraduate degree from Emmaus Bible college in Biblical Studies and Counseling Psychology. Emily received her graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Indiana Wesleyan University. With a background in Christian counseling, Emily is open to incorporating faith-based perspectives into therapy. Emily would like to help guide her clients through their spiritual exploration. Allowing a safe space for her clients to ask questions.
Emily Spaargaren, a compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois, creates a safe and welcoming space for clients seeking support and understanding. Emily received an undergraduate degree from Emmaus Bible college in Biblical Studies and Counseling Psychology. Emily received her graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Indiana Wesleyan University. With a background in Christian counseling, Emily is open to incorporating faith-based perspectives into therapy. Emily would like to help guide her clients through their spiritual exploration. Allowing a safe space for her clients to ask questions.
I believe that therapy is a unique place to take a breath and a step back to figure out the direction to go. Life is a journey with both highs and lows. I believe that everyone can improve their lives and enjoy helping others identify the changes needed to better themselves. I am down-to-earth, relatable and genuine. I also enjoy pointing out the irony of everyday life and getting my clients to laugh at times. I believe therapy is beneficial to everyone and practice it myself.
I believe that therapy is a unique place to take a breath and a step back to figure out the direction to go. Life is a journey with both highs and lows. I believe that everyone can improve their lives and enjoy helping others identify the changes needed to better themselves. I am down-to-earth, relatable and genuine. I also enjoy pointing out the irony of everyday life and getting my clients to laugh at times. I believe therapy is beneficial to everyone and practice it myself.
More Therapists Nearby
Helene Jacques is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor who has been in practice since 2000. She sees adolescents and adults for individual and family therapy. Helene has extensive experience working with clients dealing with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, adoption concerns, relationship problems, stress management, medical and health concerns, and post-abortion issues. Helene was trained in an eclectic model of therapy and relies on this knowledge base to select effective treatment approaches for each client or family.
Helene Jacques is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor who has been in practice since 2000. She sees adolescents and adults for individual and family therapy. Helene has extensive experience working with clients dealing with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, adoption concerns, relationship problems, stress management, medical and health concerns, and post-abortion issues. Helene was trained in an eclectic model of therapy and relies on this knowledge base to select effective treatment approaches for each client or family.
Professional Membership: American Psychological Association, World Professional Association for Transgender Health, & International Society of Trauma-Informed Therapists.
Do you often feel weighed down by feelings of anxiety or depression? If you find it difficult to manage these overwhelming emotions know you are not alone. You do not have to suffer while trying to ‘figure things out.’ Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of these challenges and build ways to cope that give you your life back. You'll have a partner in this process; send a message and schedule a consultation today. *Accepting telehealth clients. (Don't worry, my software is very user friendly and allows you to have session in the comfort of your own home.)
Professional Membership: American Psychological Association, World Professional Association for Transgender Health, & International Society of Trauma-Informed Therapists.
Do you often feel weighed down by feelings of anxiety or depression? If you find it difficult to manage these overwhelming emotions know you are not alone. You do not have to suffer while trying to ‘figure things out.’ Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of these challenges and build ways to cope that give you your life back. You'll have a partner in this process; send a message and schedule a consultation today. *Accepting telehealth clients. (Don't worry, my software is very user friendly and allows you to have session in the comfort of your own home.)
Christina Graffagna
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Unfulfilled in your relationships? Struggling to manage anxiety? Daily life can bring endless challenges. In therapy, we will broaden the perspective beyond daily encounters, delving into patterns, underlying causes, and systemic influences. We all perceive the world through a unique lens, and treatment for similar symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. I'm dedicated to creating a welcoming space that embraces LGBTQ+ people and trauma-informed care. Expect lots of empathy, open chats, and a sprinkle of humor to spark meaningful conversations.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Unfulfilled in your relationships? Struggling to manage anxiety? Daily life can bring endless challenges. In therapy, we will broaden the perspective beyond daily encounters, delving into patterns, underlying causes, and systemic influences. We all perceive the world through a unique lens, and treatment for similar symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. I'm dedicated to creating a welcoming space that embraces LGBTQ+ people and trauma-informed care. Expect lots of empathy, open chats, and a sprinkle of humor to spark meaningful conversations.
Marina Cotsilis is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois with a profound history of clinical experience and a compassionate approach to therapy. With a Master of Social Work from the University of Denver and dual Bachelor's degrees in Fine Art Photography from Columbia College Chicago and Clinical Psychology from Loyola University of Chicago, Marina combines creativity with clinical expertise in her therapeutic practice. Marina's professional journey encompasses a diverse range of experiences across various healthcare settings, including adult and pediatric inpatient and outpatient care, medical surgeries, and psychiatric care.
Marina Cotsilis is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois with a profound history of clinical experience and a compassionate approach to therapy. With a Master of Social Work from the University of Denver and dual Bachelor's degrees in Fine Art Photography from Columbia College Chicago and Clinical Psychology from Loyola University of Chicago, Marina combines creativity with clinical expertise in her therapeutic practice. Marina's professional journey encompasses a diverse range of experiences across various healthcare settings, including adult and pediatric inpatient and outpatient care, medical surgeries, and psychiatric care.
When life is overwhelming, I want to give you tools that can bring immediate relief. My approach is to tailor our work to your needs. Although I have worked with many clients with varying issues of all ages, my specialties include issues of grief/loss, chronic medical illnesses (cancer, diabetes), depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ and fertility issues. I strive to help you concentrate on the present, focus on the future and explore the past to understand current behaviors and coping. I create a safe place where you can share and acquire more coping tools to adjust to life changes.
When life is overwhelming, I want to give you tools that can bring immediate relief. My approach is to tailor our work to your needs. Although I have worked with many clients with varying issues of all ages, my specialties include issues of grief/loss, chronic medical illnesses (cancer, diabetes), depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ and fertility issues. I strive to help you concentrate on the present, focus on the future and explore the past to understand current behaviors and coping. I create a safe place where you can share and acquire more coping tools to adjust to life changes.
Meg Childress
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I help people of all ages who are dealing with stress, a significant loss, obstacles to achieving important goals, a mental health concern or difficulties in their relationships with others. Do you find yourself feeling anxious, frustrated, sad, or overwhelmed much of the time? We can work together to help you with that. Therapy provides a safe, designated space to work on feeling better, more satisfied, and "less stuck." I offer a caring and non-judgmental approach which appreciates that each person is unique, as is their life path and goals for treatment.
I help people of all ages who are dealing with stress, a significant loss, obstacles to achieving important goals, a mental health concern or difficulties in their relationships with others. Do you find yourself feeling anxious, frustrated, sad, or overwhelmed much of the time? We can work together to help you with that. Therapy provides a safe, designated space to work on feeling better, more satisfied, and "less stuck." I offer a caring and non-judgmental approach which appreciates that each person is unique, as is their life path and goals for treatment.
See more therapy options for Westmont
Nearby Transgender Therapists Searches for Westmont
- Darien
- Downers Grove
- Hinsdale
- La Grange
- La Grange Park
- Lemont
- Lisle
- Lombard
- Oak Brook
- Western Springs
- Willowbrook
- Woodridge
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.