LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Winfield, IL
Briana Jakubik
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190 (Online Only)
I strive to find solutions that are "Skills Over Pills" when starting therapy. I am passionate about helping teens and adults that are struggling to better themselves. It can be scary to feel that you are “behind others” in life, but I can help you refocus on the positive aspects of yourself and what you are truly capable of. I specialize in LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, life changes, ADHD, and eating disorders. I have worked with individuals, groups, and in hospital settings. I also taught parenting classes and have experience with career counseling. All of my experience is focused on guiding others along their journey.
I strive to find solutions that are "Skills Over Pills" when starting therapy. I am passionate about helping teens and adults that are struggling to better themselves. It can be scary to feel that you are “behind others” in life, but I can help you refocus on the positive aspects of yourself and what you are truly capable of. I specialize in LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, life changes, ADHD, and eating disorders. I have worked with individuals, groups, and in hospital settings. I also taught parenting classes and have experience with career counseling. All of my experience is focused on guiding others along their journey.
Jacqueline Chaidez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAATC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winfield, IL 60190
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
How many times have you heard, “why can’t you just stop?” Do you find yourself wishing those around you would attempt to understand your experience and hear you? Addiction, anxiety, and depression are already so isolating and we often have a difficult time understanding our own behavior without trying to explain it to family and friends. We feel stuck, alone, frustrated, and misunderstood. Imagine what it would be like to identify the root cause of your addiction and start treating the source while learning coping skills for managing addictive behavior, anxiety, and depression.
How many times have you heard, “why can’t you just stop?” Do you find yourself wishing those around you would attempt to understand your experience and hear you? Addiction, anxiety, and depression are already so isolating and we often have a difficult time understanding our own behavior without trying to explain it to family and friends. We feel stuck, alone, frustrated, and misunderstood. Imagine what it would be like to identify the root cause of your addiction and start treating the source while learning coping skills for managing addictive behavior, anxiety, and depression.
Are you struggling to prioritize your own needs and caring for yourself? Are you feeling the weight of depression, anxiety, and relationship problems? I strongly believe that, as individuals, we need to prioritize our own well-being to live a full and rewarding lives. Helping clients discover and access self-care and self-compassion as they begin their journey in therapy is a passion of mine. Beginnings are never easy, but I am here to walk alongside you in this journey and will be here to support and guide you through this rewarding and life changing process.
Are you struggling to prioritize your own needs and caring for yourself? Are you feeling the weight of depression, anxiety, and relationship problems? I strongly believe that, as individuals, we need to prioritize our own well-being to live a full and rewarding lives. Helping clients discover and access self-care and self-compassion as they begin their journey in therapy is a passion of mine. Beginnings are never easy, but I am here to walk alongside you in this journey and will be here to support and guide you through this rewarding and life changing process.
Psychotherapy provides a personalized journey towards understanding and learning about one's self. Therapy can help us cope with psychological distress and the issues which life presents to us.
Psychotherapy provides a personalized journey towards understanding and learning about one's self. Therapy can help us cope with psychological distress and the issues which life presents to us.
Everyone deserves a non-judgmental and compassionate space to heal! I am passionate about building healthy relationships with my clients. I believe in creating a safe, stable space that will allow you to express yourself and explore your concerns fully and authentically. I specialize in working with clients dealing with mood disorders, neurodiversity, and complex trauma. I regularly work with individuals who have felt let down, misunderstood, or unheard by the traditional healthcare system. I am passionate about and deeply committed to providing neurodivergent-affirming and diversity-affirming care for all of my clients.
Everyone deserves a non-judgmental and compassionate space to heal! I am passionate about building healthy relationships with my clients. I believe in creating a safe, stable space that will allow you to express yourself and explore your concerns fully and authentically. I specialize in working with clients dealing with mood disorders, neurodiversity, and complex trauma. I regularly work with individuals who have felt let down, misunderstood, or unheard by the traditional healthcare system. I am passionate about and deeply committed to providing neurodivergent-affirming and diversity-affirming care for all of my clients.
Carrie Summers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winfield, IL 60190
I have experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, perinatal and postpartum stressors, life transitions, work/ school stressors, relationship challenges (dating, divorce, marriage, friendships), trauma, and narcissistic abuse.
Ever ask yourself, ”How did I get here?” When you feel overwhelmed and discouraged, it's like trying to keep your head above water. Life can get hectic, basic everyday tasks become more difficult, relationships get strained, and the wear and tear of your different roles becomes harder and tougher to juggle. Finding a sense of emotional well-being and balance in life can sometimes feel like an impossible task, especially during unpredictable times. If you’re starting to question your values, your thoughts, or your choices because you know there’s more to life; I’m so glad you found me.
I have experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, perinatal and postpartum stressors, life transitions, work/ school stressors, relationship challenges (dating, divorce, marriage, friendships), trauma, and narcissistic abuse.
Ever ask yourself, ”How did I get here?” When you feel overwhelmed and discouraged, it's like trying to keep your head above water. Life can get hectic, basic everyday tasks become more difficult, relationships get strained, and the wear and tear of your different roles becomes harder and tougher to juggle. Finding a sense of emotional well-being and balance in life can sometimes feel like an impossible task, especially during unpredictable times. If you’re starting to question your values, your thoughts, or your choices because you know there’s more to life; I’m so glad you found me.
More Therapists Nearby
Dony Sevedge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60116
I’m knowledgeable about the LGBTQIA+ community and other cultural backgrounds.
Are you searching for someone committed to guiding you through the weight of your anxiety and depression? Do you search for someone to understand your ADHD and teach you skills to navigate it? Do you ask yourself, will I ever find someone who knows what I’m going through? Your journey has led you to read my profile and see that I’m passionate about therapy and making you the best version of yourself you can be. I look forward to developing a therapeutic relationship with you and starting your journey of navigation and self-healing.
I’m knowledgeable about the LGBTQIA+ community and other cultural backgrounds.
Are you searching for someone committed to guiding you through the weight of your anxiety and depression? Do you search for someone to understand your ADHD and teach you skills to navigate it? Do you ask yourself, will I ever find someone who knows what I’m going through? Your journey has led you to read my profile and see that I’m passionate about therapy and making you the best version of yourself you can be. I look forward to developing a therapeutic relationship with you and starting your journey of navigation and self-healing.
Additionally, as a member of the LGBTQ community, I am passionate about helping people navigate identity and sexuality issues, as well as the complex thoughts and emotions that can come from intersecting sexual and faith identities.
Experiencing unexplained sources of anxiety, and not understanding out own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can be really scary. Not being able to understand or effectively communicate with your child can be even scarier. If you are an overwhelmed parent of a child or adolescent who is experiencing difficulties such as anxiety, depression, anger, explosive emotion, isolation, self-harm, or identity confusion, or you yourself are struggling to understand your own thoughts, feelings, or sexual/gender identity, I may be the right fit for you.
Additionally, as a member of the LGBTQ community, I am passionate about helping people navigate identity and sexuality issues, as well as the complex thoughts and emotions that can come from intersecting sexual and faith identities.
Experiencing unexplained sources of anxiety, and not understanding out own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can be really scary. Not being able to understand or effectively communicate with your child can be even scarier. If you are an overwhelmed parent of a child or adolescent who is experiencing difficulties such as anxiety, depression, anger, explosive emotion, isolation, self-harm, or identity confusion, or you yourself are struggling to understand your own thoughts, feelings, or sexual/gender identity, I may be the right fit for you.
I love working with clients in the LGBTQIA+ community. It can be challenging to navigate living in America with the current political climate surrounding identities. Life can be difficult without the added load of exploring your gender identity or sexuality. I am here to walk along side my clients as they continue down whatever path they may be on.
I love working with clients in the LGBTQIA+ community. It can be challenging to navigate living in America with the current political climate surrounding identities. Life can be difficult without the added load of exploring your gender identity or sexuality. I am here to walk along side my clients as they continue down whatever path they may be on.
By understanding sexuality, utilizing sex-positive counseling practices, and being an ally for the LGBTQIA+ community in the therapy dynamic, I passionately advocate for vulnerable individuals to uphold dignity and value.
I believe healing is possible through an invitation to connect with your body, emotions, and thoughts. To build understanding about how your experiences, relationships, and culture have impacted your life. I seek to be a companion in the process of sharing your personal story as you sift through the well of your entire lived experience to discover your authentic voice. Together, we will use body based interventions, emotionally focused work, and brain-based approaches like EMDR to reclaim the chapters of your life where difficult experiences stole your sense of who you are, and nurture growth, healing, and overcome loneliness.
By understanding sexuality, utilizing sex-positive counseling practices, and being an ally for the LGBTQIA+ community in the therapy dynamic, I passionately advocate for vulnerable individuals to uphold dignity and value.
I believe healing is possible through an invitation to connect with your body, emotions, and thoughts. To build understanding about how your experiences, relationships, and culture have impacted your life. I seek to be a companion in the process of sharing your personal story as you sift through the well of your entire lived experience to discover your authentic voice. Together, we will use body based interventions, emotionally focused work, and brain-based approaches like EMDR to reclaim the chapters of your life where difficult experiences stole your sense of who you are, and nurture growth, healing, and overcome loneliness.
Dr Margot Gay Mahan & Associates is a professional, family-centered counseling, psychotherapy and assessment practice dedicated to the emotional health and well-being of children adolescents and adults.
I believe our primary desire is to form satisfying, balanced relationships. I work from a Developmental, Attachment, Relational perspective and frequently incorporate Trauma & Family Systems Models into my work. I have extensive experience with infants, young children, teens, families & adults. When working with children I strive to work collaboratively with all relevant members in the child's life to understand & treat that child.
Dr Margot Gay Mahan & Associates is a professional, family-centered counseling, psychotherapy and assessment practice dedicated to the emotional health and well-being of children adolescents and adults.
I believe our primary desire is to form satisfying, balanced relationships. I work from a Developmental, Attachment, Relational perspective and frequently incorporate Trauma & Family Systems Models into my work. I have extensive experience with infants, young children, teens, families & adults. When working with children I strive to work collaboratively with all relevant members in the child's life to understand & treat that child.
My areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse recovery, grief, PTSD, gender identity and LGBTQ issues I am certified in hypnotherapy and have a particular passion for working with the LGBTQ community.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I intimately understand that life can be stressful and that life transitions can be overwhelming and confusing. I understand that the upheaval of life often leads to feelings of fear, helplessness, and hopelessness and can be experienced as anxiety, depression, or simply a loss of self. I understand that you have questions about therapy….
My areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse recovery, grief, PTSD, gender identity and LGBTQ issues I am certified in hypnotherapy and have a particular passion for working with the LGBTQ community.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I intimately understand that life can be stressful and that life transitions can be overwhelming and confusing. I understand that the upheaval of life often leads to feelings of fear, helplessness, and hopelessness and can be experienced as anxiety, depression, or simply a loss of self. I understand that you have questions about therapy….
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
Regan Kasprak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
I am passionate about helping people navigate challenging interpersonal relationships, process family of origin trauma, and develop mindfulness skills to cope with stress, anxiety, OCD, and body image struggles. Many of my clients tend to be open-minded and curious about how their upbringings have shaped them, have some “people-pleasing” or “perfectionistic” tendencies, experience feelings of burnout and disconnection, and/or identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. In our sessions, I take a laid-back approach. We’ll explore your experiences, without rigid rules or fixed agendas, where you lead and we discover together.
I am passionate about helping people navigate challenging interpersonal relationships, process family of origin trauma, and develop mindfulness skills to cope with stress, anxiety, OCD, and body image struggles. Many of my clients tend to be open-minded and curious about how their upbringings have shaped them, have some “people-pleasing” or “perfectionistic” tendencies, experience feelings of burnout and disconnection, and/or identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. In our sessions, I take a laid-back approach. We’ll explore your experiences, without rigid rules or fixed agendas, where you lead and we discover together.
See more therapy options for Winfield
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Winfield
- Aurora
- Bloomingdale
- Carol Stream
- Glen Ellyn
- Glendale Heights
- Hanover Park
- Lisle
- Lombard
- Naperville
- Warrenville
- West Chicago
- Wheaton
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.