Transgender Therapists in Winfield, IL
![Photo of Briana Jakubik - Briana Jakubik, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d5434c9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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” 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” 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.
![Photo of Linda Cunningham, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39732ae5-9a8e-47f0-9be0-3bbae3cc8ebb/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Shannon Dudzienski, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e665ba10-ac91-402a-86be-e246b98eb060/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Stephanie Key, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5230ff2d-c86b-4e8e-a5b6-a77c23cc8fea/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kristen A Jacobs, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfc571b8-4daf-4555-bb0b-cce36593af5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kasia Tomanek, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f83c2ce-cdb4-4958-8145-74cd3f00618a/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jonathan Alvin, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b5e8455-ecb0-4f31-8a91-33a4142c3fe9/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Rachel Rosales, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2680f51-4453-4589-bb4f-a610bc182919/1/320x400.png)
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.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Cindy Baleskie, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae2fe802-b9a1-4c71-bbea-57d731aee5a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
My aim is to be genuine, down-to-earth, and to use a healthy dose of humor in therapy. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, and chronic suicidal thoughts, though I work with a wide variety of clients. I love providing support to the parents of teens with behavioral and mental health challenges. I am trained in prenatal/postpartum mental health. Over the past ten years, I have worked closely with many transgender individuals and their families. I also enjoy supporting other care-taking professionals, such as nurses, educators, and other therapists.
My aim is to be genuine, down-to-earth, and to use a healthy dose of humor in therapy. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, and chronic suicidal thoughts, though I work with a wide variety of clients. I love providing support to the parents of teens with behavioral and mental health challenges. I am trained in prenatal/postpartum mental health. Over the past ten years, I have worked closely with many transgender individuals and their families. I also enjoy supporting other care-taking professionals, such as nurses, educators, and other therapists.
![Photo of Ashley Eller, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/feb18c72-e97c-4472-8f27-209479369322/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Eller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Clients of mine fall within the 12-24 year old range with their main struggles surrounding identity development, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and self-esteem. My clients come to therapy with presenting problems including: anxiety, depression, attentional difficulties, interpersonal relationship struggles, and emotional dysregulation difficulties. Working collaboratively with me, clients can expect a clear understanding of the treatment process as well as mutually formulating achievable and impactful therapeutic goals.
Clients of mine fall within the 12-24 year old range with their main struggles surrounding identity development, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and self-esteem. My clients come to therapy with presenting problems including: anxiety, depression, attentional difficulties, interpersonal relationship struggles, and emotional dysregulation difficulties. Working collaboratively with me, clients can expect a clear understanding of the treatment process as well as mutually formulating achievable and impactful therapeutic goals.
![Photo of Yolanda Olaya, PsyD, MPH, MScOB, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8e13240-2ee1-4df7-b6b1-f61978157b80/1/320x400.jpeg)
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
![Photo of Heather Anderson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8989cd90-e965-44d0-ae37-3fcd39b8e9a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60189
I graduated from Benedictine University in 2018 with a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology. Specializing in children and adolescent therapy, I have experience working with individuals experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, stress, grief, and trauma. I have recently developed an interest in working with couples and find that to be very meaningful. Whether it is topics of identity or communication, I am here to help!
I graduated from Benedictine University in 2018 with a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology. Specializing in children and adolescent therapy, I have experience working with individuals experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, stress, grief, and trauma. I have recently developed an interest in working with couples and find that to be very meaningful. Whether it is topics of identity or communication, I am here to help!
![Photo of Lauren Lucas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64756c03-fb32-462f-a042-cf8a64bb61e0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Perhaps you're pursuing therapy in the hopes of strengthening your self-worth, or maybe to improve communication skills, to process the impact traumatic experiences have had on your worldview, or to learn new ways to cope with depression, anxiety, or life's stressors. Whatever it is that has prompted you to start this process, I look forward to working together to move you towards a place of contentment, emotional security, and confidence in coping with what life brings you. My approach is collaborative and conversational; my clients have described our sessions as warm, empowering, educational, and connective.
Perhaps you're pursuing therapy in the hopes of strengthening your self-worth, or maybe to improve communication skills, to process the impact traumatic experiences have had on your worldview, or to learn new ways to cope with depression, anxiety, or life's stressors. Whatever it is that has prompted you to start this process, I look forward to working together to move you towards a place of contentment, emotional security, and confidence in coping with what life brings you. My approach is collaborative and conversational; my clients have described our sessions as warm, empowering, educational, and connective.
![Photo of Anna Lustyk, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98745030-8ef7-4daa-b0eb-25b61e9441e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Taking steps to get counseling takes a lot of courage. I believe that everyone has their own unique experience and challenges, and that you don't have to go through it on your own. It is my goal to guide you closer to a balanced and happy life. I typically work with adults and adolescents ages 11-17 with anxiety, depression, body image, self-esteem, and coping skills. I am passionate about working with people who are marginalized (BIPOC, LGBTQ+, Women etc.).
Taking steps to get counseling takes a lot of courage. I believe that everyone has their own unique experience and challenges, and that you don't have to go through it on your own. It is my goal to guide you closer to a balanced and happy life. I typically work with adults and adolescents ages 11-17 with anxiety, depression, body image, self-esteem, and coping skills. I am passionate about working with people who are marginalized (BIPOC, LGBTQ+, Women etc.).
![Photo of Elisa Balthazar, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c16a414-2d67-4106-84f7-1f895cbba4a1/2/320x400.jpeg)
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
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
![Photo of Kelly Beyer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65d55a48-07e9-46fa-a194-be768adc3bd5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Kelly Beyer, LPC and EMDR Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I'm passionate about facilitating a safe place for my clint's to effect positive change, becoming the person they want and know they truly are inside and out. As a military veteran and retired police officer, I have worked with people at various stages of their lives both with similarities and/or differences from me.
Hello! My name is Kelly Beyer, LPC and EMDR Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I'm passionate about facilitating a safe place for my clint's to effect positive change, becoming the person they want and know they truly are inside and out. As a military veteran and retired police officer, I have worked with people at various stages of their lives both with similarities and/or differences from me.
![Photo of Kelly McCauley, MA, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5b85dc5-6aa8-48c8-b99c-622edbf10003/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly McCauley
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carol Stream, IL 60116
Hi there! Have you been struggling to ask for help? If so, I am proud of you for taking this first step! I haven’t heard your story yet, but I imagine it’s one full of strength and courage. No matter how worried, scared, hopeless, or confused you may be feeling, I am confident we can work together to bring back the joy you’ve been missing in your life.
Hi there! Have you been struggling to ask for help? If so, I am proud of you for taking this first step! I haven’t heard your story yet, but I imagine it’s one full of strength and courage. No matter how worried, scared, hopeless, or confused you may be feeling, I am confident we can work together to bring back the joy you’ve been missing in your life.
![Photo of Stacy Ramirez - Inner Courage Counseling Masters Level Interns](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2723f023-1f95-4a37-8de1-ccc97042584d/1/320x400.png)
We know that life is not always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people among us need guidance working through some of life's more challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome. Whether you struggle with anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. Reach out today so we can get you paired up with one of our amazing providers.
We know that life is not always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people among us need guidance working through some of life's more challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome. Whether you struggle with anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. Reach out today so we can get you paired up with one of our amazing providers.
![Photo of Colin M Hammer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28b94494-3a73-4ce6-b6d0-a0d4a0901702/2/320x400.jpeg)
I approach the therapeutic relationship from a client-centered lens with an integrative treatment approach. This means that I work with each client to develop a unique treatment plan to address their specific needs. I do not utilize a one size fits all approach and I believe that the client is just as important in this process as the therapist is. I examine all aspects of a client’s perspective including the systems that impact them. Treating the whole person is an important aspect for me in my therapeutic engagement with clients. I believe that every person has value and is worthy of kindness.
I approach the therapeutic relationship from a client-centered lens with an integrative treatment approach. This means that I work with each client to develop a unique treatment plan to address their specific needs. I do not utilize a one size fits all approach and I believe that the client is just as important in this process as the therapist is. I examine all aspects of a client’s perspective including the systems that impact them. Treating the whole person is an important aspect for me in my therapeutic engagement with clients. I believe that every person has value and is worthy of kindness.
![Photo of Meagan Alexander, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06792e48-9495-4dcd-af5c-c926e74d2198/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! My name is Meagan (she/they) and I have had the privilege of working with clients of all different backgrounds at both the residential and outpatient level of care. I prioritize creating a safe and inviting space for individuals to begin their healing journey and am grateful to have the opportunity to help individuals explore how pieces from our past can continue to impact us as we continue to get older. I strongly believe in taking an individualized and empathic approach in order to empower individuals as they strive to meet their goals, as well as to ensure they feel supported and heard.
Hi! My name is Meagan (she/they) and I have had the privilege of working with clients of all different backgrounds at both the residential and outpatient level of care. I prioritize creating a safe and inviting space for individuals to begin their healing journey and am grateful to have the opportunity to help individuals explore how pieces from our past can continue to impact us as we continue to get older. I strongly believe in taking an individualized and empathic approach in order to empower individuals as they strive to meet their goals, as well as to ensure they feel supported and heard.
See more therapy options for Winfield
Nearby Transgender Therapists Searches for Winfield
- Aurora
- Bartlett
- Bloomingdale
- Carol Stream
- Glen Ellyn
- Lisle
- Lombard
- Naperville
- Roselle
- Warrenville
- West Chicago
- Wheaton
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.