Transgender Therapists in Wilmette, IL

Photo of Val Newman, ATR, LCPC, Counselor
Val Newman
Counselor, ATR, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
Val's passion for working with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer communities is evident in her artwork, presentations, and therapeutic approach.
Val has woven traditional talk therapy and creative techniques to provide a safe, supportive and non-judgmental space for individuals, youth and families to work through difficult life experiences. They have extensive experience working with youth and families managing the challenges associated with emotional and behavioral problems, domestic violence, sexual assault, mental health concerns, and various traumatic life events. She believes in an empowerment and strength-based approach while fostering an environment that encourages self-acceptance, self-awareness and growth.
Val's passion for working with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer communities is evident in her artwork, presentations, and therapeutic approach.
Val has woven traditional talk therapy and creative techniques to provide a safe, supportive and non-judgmental space for individuals, youth and families to work through difficult life experiences. They have extensive experience working with youth and families managing the challenges associated with emotional and behavioral problems, domestic violence, sexual assault, mental health concerns, and various traumatic life events. She believes in an empowerment and strength-based approach while fostering an environment that encourages self-acceptance, self-awareness and growth.
(312) 548-1672 View (312) 548-1672
Photo of Siegal Eli-Gers, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Siegal Eli-Gers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
I have had advanced training and experience working with the Gender queer, Transgender and gender exploring community.
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have focused my career on working with adolescents ,young adults, parents and families. Over the last 10 + years, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals and families in the North Shore. I work with clients to help them find a safe space to express, explore and make positive changes. Over the years I have learned that every individual and family is unique and need treatment to be flexible and supportive of their needs. I work to create opportunities and to teach tangible skills, so long lasting change is possible. I am a gender affirming clinician.
I have had advanced training and experience working with the Gender queer, Transgender and gender exploring community.
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have focused my career on working with adolescents ,young adults, parents and families. Over the last 10 + years, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals and families in the North Shore. I work with clients to help them find a safe space to express, explore and make positive changes. Over the years I have learned that every individual and family is unique and need treatment to be flexible and supportive of their needs. I work to create opportunities and to teach tangible skills, so long lasting change is possible. I am a gender affirming clinician.
(847) 562-5696 View (847) 562-5696
Photo of Rebecca Mach, PsyD, Psychologist
Rebecca Mach
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
I specialize in the following concerns: depression, anxiety, relationship dissatisfaction & codependency, becoming a new parent or parenting concerns throughout the developmental lifespan, and healthy transgender & non-binary identity development.
Choosing the right therapist is important. I am committed to assisting you confront old and new obstacles and make meaningful changes in your life. I have the highest respect for someone who comes through my door. Together, we create a path for personal healing and growth.
I specialize in the following concerns: depression, anxiety, relationship dissatisfaction & codependency, becoming a new parent or parenting concerns throughout the developmental lifespan, and healthy transgender & non-binary identity development.
Choosing the right therapist is important. I am committed to assisting you confront old and new obstacles and make meaningful changes in your life. I have the highest respect for someone who comes through my door. Together, we create a path for personal healing and growth.
(773) 992-1055 View (773) 992-1055
Photo of Mackenzie DiFiore, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mackenzie DiFiore
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
I primarily work with adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD. I use a broad range of therapeutic techniques and do not believe in a “one size fits all” approach for clients. My work with clients comes from a relational, trauma informed lens, and integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I particularly enjoy working with those transitioning to a new stage in life (a new year of school, starting college/a new job) and am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ population.
I primarily work with adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD. I use a broad range of therapeutic techniques and do not believe in a “one size fits all” approach for clients. My work with clients comes from a relational, trauma informed lens, and integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I particularly enjoy working with those transitioning to a new stage in life (a new year of school, starting college/a new job) and am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ population.
(224) 298-8308 View (224) 298-8308
Photo of Kyle J Telander, PhD, MEd, Psychologist
Kyle J Telander
Psychologist, PhD, MEd
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
Hi! If you’re reading this it’s a fair guess you’re considering therapy and trying to find the right person to work with. Perhaps you’ve been in therapy before, or wanted to but held back, or maybe you've done pretty well on your own until recently. Regardless, I’m glad you’re here. You've already taken the first step to helping yourself, and that is no small thing. The next step is to find the right fit. I'm experienced in working with all manner of issues, but I tend to work best with adults who are insightful and motivated to not just fix specific problems, but to really figure out and pursue the life they've always wanted.
Hi! If you’re reading this it’s a fair guess you’re considering therapy and trying to find the right person to work with. Perhaps you’ve been in therapy before, or wanted to but held back, or maybe you've done pretty well on your own until recently. Regardless, I’m glad you’re here. You've already taken the first step to helping yourself, and that is no small thing. The next step is to find the right fit. I'm experienced in working with all manner of issues, but I tend to work best with adults who are insightful and motivated to not just fix specific problems, but to really figure out and pursue the life they've always wanted.
(224) 408-5251 View (224) 408-5251
Photo of Arlyn Stern - Arlyn Stern LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arlyn Stern LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
Depression, anxiety, addictive and compulsive behaviors, relationship conflicts, loneliness, life changes, indecision, performance issues, impulsivity, stress and frustration...We all struggle with something; it is part of the human condition. At times, it is more than we can deal with and manage on our own. I strive to create a comfortable environment for my clients, as we work together to understand what is troubling you and identify the steps you may take toward realizing the life you envision.
Depression, anxiety, addictive and compulsive behaviors, relationship conflicts, loneliness, life changes, indecision, performance issues, impulsivity, stress and frustration...We all struggle with something; it is part of the human condition. At times, it is more than we can deal with and manage on our own. I strive to create a comfortable environment for my clients, as we work together to understand what is troubling you and identify the steps you may take toward realizing the life you envision.
(847) 915-4521 View (847) 915-4521
Photo of Kannan Vinaitheerthan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kannan Vinaitheerthan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
Hi there, my name is Kannan Vinaitheerthan. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker typically practicing in Wilmette, Illinois and currently providing therapy virtually as well as outdoors weather permitting. I work with children, adolescents and adults and provide individual and family therapy. I have experience working with those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, school-related problems and more.
Hi there, my name is Kannan Vinaitheerthan. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker typically practicing in Wilmette, Illinois and currently providing therapy virtually as well as outdoors weather permitting. I work with children, adolescents and adults and provide individual and family therapy. I have experience working with those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, school-related problems and more.
(630) 445-0537 View (630) 445-0537
Photo of Lonny Levin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lonny Levin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
Lonny Levin is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. He has a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University. Lonny approaches every client with warmth, empathy, compassion, and without judgment. He firmly believes in working collaboratively with clients to help find the style of therapy that works best for their personality. Lonny strives to provide a space where a person can feel safe to be their true self and trust him to help guide them through their struggles and successes.
Lonny Levin is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. He has a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University. Lonny approaches every client with warmth, empathy, compassion, and without judgment. He firmly believes in working collaboratively with clients to help find the style of therapy that works best for their personality. Lonny strives to provide a space where a person can feel safe to be their true self and trust him to help guide them through their struggles and successes.
(847) 649-6811 View (847) 649-6811
Photo of Sam Sherman, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sam Sherman
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
I strive to provide a warm, judgment-free environment where patients can explore their mental health goals and discover their inner strengths. I aim to meet patients where they are, offering compassionate support throughout their counseling journey. In sessions, I collaborate with patients to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their values and needs. I have experience helping individuals manage conditions like depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, low self-esteem, major life changes, and compulsive gambling.
I strive to provide a warm, judgment-free environment where patients can explore their mental health goals and discover their inner strengths. I aim to meet patients where they are, offering compassionate support throughout their counseling journey. In sessions, I collaborate with patients to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their values and needs. I have experience helping individuals manage conditions like depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, low self-esteem, major life changes, and compulsive gambling.
(773) 207-2809 View (773) 207-2809
Photo of Hannah Rosenbaum, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Rosenbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
Hi, and welcome. Wherever you are on your journey, whatever may be taking place inside your mind, your body, or around you in this moment— welcome. As a social worker for a decade, my experience includes work with adolescents, twenty-somethings, and adults in the non-profit and private sectors. I ground my practice in values of intersectionality, warmth, and creativity. I use the lens of relational psychodynamics, feminism, and queer theory to support both individuals and couples.
Hi, and welcome. Wherever you are on your journey, whatever may be taking place inside your mind, your body, or around you in this moment— welcome. As a social worker for a decade, my experience includes work with adolescents, twenty-somethings, and adults in the non-profit and private sectors. I ground my practice in values of intersectionality, warmth, and creativity. I use the lens of relational psychodynamics, feminism, and queer theory to support both individuals and couples.
(773) 839-3326 View (773) 839-3326
Photo of Steve Schreiner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steve Schreiner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
Steve Schreiner is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2008. He has a BS in Education from De Paul University and an MA in Counselor Education from Northeastern Illinois University. Steve helps his clients by assisting them in identifying goals, as well as potential solutions to problems which cause emotional turmoil. Steve seeks to improve communication and teaches practical coping mechanisms which can help the client immediately to deal with their specific symptoms. Steve promotes behavioral change and optimal mental health.
Steve Schreiner is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2008. He has a BS in Education from De Paul University and an MA in Counselor Education from Northeastern Illinois University. Steve helps his clients by assisting them in identifying goals, as well as potential solutions to problems which cause emotional turmoil. Steve seeks to improve communication and teaches practical coping mechanisms which can help the client immediately to deal with their specific symptoms. Steve promotes behavioral change and optimal mental health.
(224) 298-8421 View (224) 298-8421
Photo of Jo Marwil Psy.d., PsyD, Psychologist
Jo Marwil Psy.d.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
Welcome, you have just taken a step closer to living the life that you want for yourself! When life challenges are greater than the skills and support that we have, personal problems erupt. I believe that human suffering is an inherent part of life. I am committed to helping people overcome life challenges and achieve greater life satisfaction.
Welcome, you have just taken a step closer to living the life that you want for yourself! When life challenges are greater than the skills and support that we have, personal problems erupt. I believe that human suffering is an inherent part of life. I am committed to helping people overcome life challenges and achieve greater life satisfaction.
(773) 747-6265 View (773) 747-6265
Photo of June Coaxum, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
June Coaxum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
June Coaxum, LSW, believes in a holistic approach to therapy and healing. She provides tools to help guide anyone that may feel stagnant or need emotional support. June loves working with her clients from a strength-based perspective. This perspective sees people as resilient when faced with adversity. She believes in creating a safe environment for clients to recognize and express those strengths. June works with many populations struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Trauma, schizophrenia, death and dying. She also has experience with Family Therapy and working with the L. G. B. T. Q. I. A. community.
June Coaxum, LSW, believes in a holistic approach to therapy and healing. She provides tools to help guide anyone that may feel stagnant or need emotional support. June loves working with her clients from a strength-based perspective. This perspective sees people as resilient when faced with adversity. She believes in creating a safe environment for clients to recognize and express those strengths. June works with many populations struggling with Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Trauma, schizophrenia, death and dying. She also has experience with Family Therapy and working with the L. G. B. T. Q. I. A. community.
(224) 279-6865 View (224) 279-6865
Photo of Ellie Schwartzman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellie Schwartzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
You want to connect, but too often your efforts end with you feeling more alone. There are so many miscommunications and hurt feelings. You’re trying to be authentic – but it feels like you’re not heard - not really seen. The last thing you want is to set yourself up to be hurt again. Your plans and interests are little comfort when you feel so isolated and disconnected and trusting others seems to come with so much risk. Know that this is not how it has to be. You can have the relationships and experiences you want – not simply settling for what is available. It's common to feel lost and unsure or where to begin.
You want to connect, but too often your efforts end with you feeling more alone. There are so many miscommunications and hurt feelings. You’re trying to be authentic – but it feels like you’re not heard - not really seen. The last thing you want is to set yourself up to be hurt again. Your plans and interests are little comfort when you feel so isolated and disconnected and trusting others seems to come with so much risk. Know that this is not how it has to be. You can have the relationships and experiences you want – not simply settling for what is available. It's common to feel lost and unsure or where to begin.
(312) 734-1593 View (312) 734-1593
Photo of Veronica Pena, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Veronica Pena
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
Veronica Pena is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. There are joys of being a parent and there are also the difficult, confusing, frustrating, and exhausting moments where you might feel like you don't know what to do to help your child. Kids struggling with behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem sometimes need an extra hand to help them navigate the difficulties in life. Veronica understands both childhood development and the complexities of parental struggles, and she can help your child have a better experience of their life.
Veronica Pena is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. There are joys of being a parent and there are also the difficult, confusing, frustrating, and exhausting moments where you might feel like you don't know what to do to help your child. Kids struggling with behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem sometimes need an extra hand to help them navigate the difficulties in life. Veronica understands both childhood development and the complexities of parental struggles, and she can help your child have a better experience of their life.
(847) 892-1567 View (847) 892-1567
Photo of Ed Rhodes, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Ed Rhodes
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
Stories have always fascinated me. They have the power to move us emotionally, to educate and instruct, to entertain us, and to cultivate true compassion and empathy through the act of sharing a story with another. They are also a powerful vehicle for how we perceive, interpret, define and live our lives, yet sometimes it can be easy to forget that we can be the authors of our story, not just a character proceeding along some previously determined narrative.
Stories have always fascinated me. They have the power to move us emotionally, to educate and instruct, to entertain us, and to cultivate true compassion and empathy through the act of sharing a story with another. They are also a powerful vehicle for how we perceive, interpret, define and live our lives, yet sometimes it can be easy to forget that we can be the authors of our story, not just a character proceeding along some previously determined narrative.
(312) 313-0272 View (312) 313-0272
Photo of Antoinette Senjanovich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Antoinette Senjanovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Wilmette, IL 60091
Antoinette Senjanovich is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master of Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. Antoinette offers a comfortable, affirmative safe space for exploration and growth. Change can be scary and often we don't know where to start. Antoinette guides clients through identifying where they want to go, and the steps needed to get there. She has experience working with complex presentations including PTSD/CPTSD, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, amongst others, and she truly believes in everyone's ability to heal.
Antoinette Senjanovich is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master of Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. Antoinette offers a comfortable, affirmative safe space for exploration and growth. Change can be scary and often we don't know where to start. Antoinette guides clients through identifying where they want to go, and the steps needed to get there. She has experience working with complex presentations including PTSD/CPTSD, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, amongst others, and she truly believes in everyone's ability to heal.
(847) 534-5497 View (847) 534-5497
Photo of Tracy Muklewicz - Insight Therapeutics, Inc., MS, Ed, NCC, LCPC, Counselor
Insight Therapeutics, Inc.
Counselor, MS, Ed, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
I utilize a combination of somatically-focused, cognitive, and psychodynamic approaches to assist you in understanding your concerns. I'd love to help you address current changes you'd like to make, but also address underlying concerns so that current struggles are less likely to resurface. I specialize in tailoring treatments in developmentally attuned ways. With adults I assist clients in understanding how their life journeys have led them to their present concerns, and work on uncovering and undoing patterns you may find less effective.
I utilize a combination of somatically-focused, cognitive, and psychodynamic approaches to assist you in understanding your concerns. I'd love to help you address current changes you'd like to make, but also address underlying concerns so that current struggles are less likely to resurface. I specialize in tailoring treatments in developmentally attuned ways. With adults I assist clients in understanding how their life journeys have led them to their present concerns, and work on uncovering and undoing patterns you may find less effective.
(847) 800-9347 View (847) 800-9347
Photo of Michelle Kane, MS, LMFT, Coach, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Kane
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, Coach
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am extensively trained to work with individuals of every age and stage of development, along with additional specialized training for couples and families. I apply a systemic perspective and strength-based and resilience approach with clients, while blending evidence-based theory into practice. I work with life stage transitions, marital satisfaction and intimacy issues, high conflict, anxiety, depression, divorced or remarried or blended families, anger management, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, multi-cultural communication, stress management, family of origin issues, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, spiritual development, and work/life balance.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am extensively trained to work with individuals of every age and stage of development, along with additional specialized training for couples and families. I apply a systemic perspective and strength-based and resilience approach with clients, while blending evidence-based theory into practice. I work with life stage transitions, marital satisfaction and intimacy issues, high conflict, anxiety, depression, divorced or remarried or blended families, anger management, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, multi-cultural communication, stress management, family of origin issues, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, spiritual development, and work/life balance.
(949) 876-7494 View (949) 876-7494
Diane Selinger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
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
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.