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LGBT therapists in Chicago, IL

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People with insurance pay as low as $0 per session through Headway

Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Chicago, IL

Finding an affirming therapist in Chicago is easier with Headway's extensive network of 733 providers experienced in supporting LGBTQIA+ mental health. Sessions are available virtually or in-person, and many plans are covered by insurance with copays as low as $0.

Pascale Davis

Pascale Davis

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“As a survivor of Complex PTSD myself, I have a special understanding and passion about helping others heal with patience and grace.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Annie Duranowski

Annie Duranowski

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I utilize a creative approach to therapy to support mental health recovery that feels safe and positive for you while embracing traditional modalities like CBT, DBT, ACT and expressive therapies.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Diabetes
Creative, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Julie Zimmerman

Julie Zimmerman

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My ability to use humor, immediately set one at ease, quickly discern "with" the client their growth areas, and help to construct appropriate measures for real steps and solutions is invaluable to raising one's self-esteem in the first session and...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Shelia Ransom Jenkins

Shelia Ransom Jenkins

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hello, I’m Shelia Ransom Jenkins, MSW, LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience supporting adolescents, adults, couples, and families through life’s challenges. I offer a compassionate, trauma-informed, and client-centered approach to therapy, creating a safe space where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered.

I hold a Master of Social Work and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice, and my professional background includes work in community mental health, educational settings, and clinical leadership roles. I have experience helping clients manage anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship and family conflict, behavioral concerns, life transitions, and stress related to work, school, and personal growth. I also have specialized training in perinatal mental health, supporting individuals experiencing postpartum depression and related mood disorders.

My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma-informed care, and strengths-based interventions, tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals. I believe therapy is most effective when it is collaborative, practical, and rooted in trust.

Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, navigating a difficult transition, or seeking deeper self-understanding, my goal is to support you with empathy, clarity, and encouragement as you work toward healing and lasting change.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Nechola Hodge

Nechola Hodge

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is supportive but direct, offering both empathy and honest feedback to help clients move forward.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Justin McKevitt

Justin McKevitt

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I take a collaborative, down-to-earth approach and tailor therapy to what actually works for you no one-size-fits-all plans.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Ganime Nazif

Ganime Nazif

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


If you're struggling with addiction, carrying the weight of complex trauma, or trying to cope while managing a chronic health condition, I want you to know there's a way forward — and you don't have to walk it alone. I'm a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CADC) with over 16 years of experience across private practice, residential substance abuse treatment, medical social work, and the non-profit world. I've sat with people in their hardest, most overwhelming moments, and I bring that same steady, non-judgmental presence to every session.

Much of my work centers on substance use and recovery, complex trauma, and the emotional toll of chronic medical conditions. Whether you're in the thick of a crisis or finally ready to address something you've carried for years, I'll meet you exactly where you are — with compassion, real tools, and zero judgment.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Andrea Guenther-Pal

Andrea Guenther-Pal

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I'm passionate about helping my clients find balance, peace, and purpose so they can live their most authentic lives.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Isabel Montoya

Isabel Montoya

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hello Fellow Human,

I am a sex and relationship therapist with a focus on BDSM and kink. Clients have found that my approach being direct with care and affirming have aided in reaching their goals. I believe that connection with others can lead to healing and use a collaborative approach.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Depression, Identity issues, Infertility
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Monday Ogbeibor

Monday Ogbeibor

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“Current clients describe me as a great listener, and I love to give ample time to truly hear what you've been feeling so we can come up with the right plan of action.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Carolyn Gonterman

Carolyn Gonterman

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My approach is integrative and holistic with a focus on supporting adults in making lasting change, deconstructing shame, and promoting self-empowerment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Musediq Ismail

Musediq Ismail

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is collaborative and patient-centered. I strive to meet people where they are, guide them with evidence-based interventions, and empower them to take an active role in their mental wellness.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Lucy Sosa

Lucy Sosa

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Using a trauma-informed, client-centered approach, I'll meet you where you are and walk with you toward healing, growth, and greater self-acceptance and connection.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Mackenzie Smalley

Mackenzie Smalley

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My goal is to aid each person in their journey, helping them find their own power, happiness, resiliency, and inner strength.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Challenging, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Brocelyn Crowley

Brocelyn Crowley

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I try to meet each individual where they are at and one of my main approaches is Problem Intervention Evaluation (PIE).”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Elizabeth Stolberg

Elizabeth Stolberg

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I love getting to know my clients and creating a space built on humor, connection, and zero judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Sara Lytle

Sara Lytle

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My goal is to help my clients find meaning and hope amidst suffering; experience greater awareness and psychological flexibility; and live in alignment with their deepest values.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kaleigh Clarke

Kaleigh Clarke

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Having served clients in Florida for the past 8 years in my work as a clinician and in welfare, my professional and personal philosophy is to meet people where they are. Therapy is a vulnerable journey of healing. I will utilize individualized care and collaboration to make you feel accepted, safe and ready to become the best version of yourself.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Andrew Gordon

Andrew Gordon

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I am sincere about providing my clients the space and compassion needed to feel understood and supported.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jodi Huffman Frazee

Jodi Huffman Frazee

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“My years in inpatient psychiatry have shaped my calm, grounded approach and deep understanding of severe and persistent mental illness.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Diabetes
Direct, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
John Henson

John Henson

Therapist

Virtual • Chicago, IL


“As a board certified psychotherapist, I have nearly 30 years of clinical experience treating adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and substance use disorders.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Grief or loss
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Oana Demian

Oana Demian

Psychologist

Virtual • Illinois


“My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, supported, and free to be yourself without judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Heather Lopez

Heather Lopez

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hi, I’m Heather Lopez, LCSW. I help women, moms, and BIPOC professionals who are navigating anxiety, life changes, burnout, and the mental load of holding everything together. You might be the one everyone counts on—but lately, you’re wondering who’s checking on you.

Whether you’re adjusting to motherhood, working through family stress, or just trying to feel like yourself again, therapy can be a space to slow down and breathe. I work virtually with clients across Illinois. My style is warm, clinical, supportive, and down-to-earth (with the occasional well-placed joke). We'll explore your patterns, set real goals, and focus on healing in a way that actually feels useful in your daily life. I accept insurance and offer weekday sessions. If you're looking for a therapist who gets it and creates a judgment-free zone, let’s talk.

In addition to individual therapy, I offer a weekly 1-hour support group for moms experiencing overwhelm, anxiety, emotional exhaustion, and difficulty adjusting to the demands of motherhood.

This group focuses on emotional regulation, stress management, and reducing feelings of isolation through supportive, structured group processing.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 14 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cherie Truax

Cherie Truax

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hi, I’m Cherie. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDR-trained therapist. I work with teens and adults who are feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. Maybe you're constantly on edge, overthinking everything, or finding it hard to slow down. Or maybe you’ve been feeling flat, unmotivated, or like you're just going through the motions. These experiences often trace back to things your nervous system picked up on — ways it learned to protect you in stressful or painful situations.

I help people work through painful memories, low self-esteem, and the weight of depression—like feeling numb, exhausted, stuck, or hard on yourself. We'll explore the parts of you carrying that pain and move at a pace that feels right, whether you're ready for deep healing or just need a safe place to land.

If you’re feeling ready—or just curious—I’d be honored to support you on your healing path.

Outside of therapy, I love curling up with a good book, finding design inspiration (I have a soft spot for cozy interiors), caring for my houseplants, and spending time with my dog, Magnolia Grace—who may occasionally drop in for a virtual session cameo.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Alisha Dusty

Alisha Dusty

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I'm passionate about working with adults who feel like their past is negatively affecting their present.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Nita Raut

Nita Raut

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


If you’re feeling overwhelmed, constantly stressed, or like you’ve lost your sense of joy in everyday life, you’re not alone. Many of my clients come to me struggling to focus, manage their mood, or keep up with work and home responsibilities. I specialize in ADHD, bipolar disorder, and anxiety/depression for all individuals including perinatal/post-partum, and I provide convenient telehealth care for adults across Illinois so you can get support from the comfort of your own space.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Priscilla Huley

Priscilla Huley

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is calm, down-to-earth, and easy to talk to. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and other life challenges...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Katherine Cooper

Katherine Cooper

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is practical, collaborative, and grounded in helping you understand both your thoughts and your nervous system.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Jill Sisler

Jill Sisler

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 24 years of experience, I provide a warm, supportive space where you can feel safe, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Jaime Altman

Jaime Altman

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I am very laidback and am not the kind of therapist to ask, "And how does that make you feel?" I use real, everyday language along with humor...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Susie Maguire

Susie Maguire

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My collaborative and compassionate approach ensures that you feel heard, understood, and supported every step of the way.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Challenging, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Megan Szudarski

Megan Szudarski

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


ONLY DAYTIME SLOTS AVAILABLE NOW

With almost a decade of experience working as a therapist, I have supported and worked with a diverse population of children, adolescents, adults, and couples through a variety of life challenges. My clinical interests include working with adults to maneuver life challenges around identity and narrative work, role exploration, attachment, and understanding complexities around family dynamics as an adult, all through a relational lens. I became a therapist because I truly believe in the importance of self-discovery and growth and I enjoy collaboratively working with clients to support, encourage, and acquire skills to better manage and understand their stressors, allowing them to feel more empowered and in control of their life.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Anna Deibel

Anna Deibel

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My goal isn't to give you all the answers—it's to help you reconnect with your own wisdom so you can move through life with greater ease, resilience, and authenticity.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Stephan Gombis

Stephan Gombis

Therapist

Virtual • Countryside, IL


“I believe in practical steps, giving my clients tools they can use in their daily lives to navigate challenges in a more fulfilling way.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Gary Schmidt

Gary Schmidt

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I am a trained Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist and I'm here to support you on your journey back to the "Self" - That calm, clear, confident center that's always been there.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kristina Casel

Kristina Casel

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Belleville, IL


“I believe prioritizing mental health is the key to our overall well-being and what allows us to truly live life thriving.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
E.T. Townsend

E.T. Townsend

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I offer support and skills to those exploring identity, intimacy, or relational complexity—whether in gender, sexuality, kink, or deocolonized relationships. They may be sitting with grief, unraveling the impact of trauma, or feeling the weight of past experiences in their body. They long for connection but struggle with vulnerability, trust, or belonging. Some feel stuck in cycles of overwhelm, while others are questioning the stories they’ve been told about who they are. They seek a space where they can be seen without judgment, process their experiences, and make sense of the systems shaping their lives.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Eunice Buckner Boone

Eunice Buckner Boone

Therapist

Virtual • Urbana, IL


“My approach is natural and organic... much of my therapy is experience plus knowledge becoming wisdom...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Pamela Lees

Pamela Lees

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hello, I am Pamela "Paige" Lees. I have been a licensed therapist for 30 years. I have worked with a wide variety of people and together tackled a multitude of life's problems. I have a master's degree in clinical psychology from the University of Illinois and a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Eastern Illinois University. I enjoy working with individuals and I specialize family problems of all kinds.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dustin Husemann

Dustin Husemann

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“Care is collaborative, evidence-based, and individualized. Treatment plans are developed by integrating clinical expertise, current research, and each client's personal goals, values, and preferences.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Frequently asked questions

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Find the right LGBTQ-friendly therapy provider for you

Headway makes it easier to connect with affirming therapists who understand your identity — from finding the right therapist, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an LGBTQIA Therapist in Chicago

Searching for LGBTQIA+ therapists in Chicago starts with finding identity-affirming care. A good fit may include experience with affirmative therapy, gender-diverse care, WPATH-informed training, or support for LGBTQIA+ relationships and family systems. You may also want a therapist who supports concerns such as anxiety, depression, identity exploration, trauma, relationship stress, or life transitions. As you compare profiles, look for listed specialties, training, and language that shows direct experience with LGBTQIA+ people, not just general mental health care.

Chicago has many therapists across neighborhoods like the Loop, Lakeview, Andersonville, Logan Square, and Hyde Park, which can make the search broad rather than simple. In-person sessions may work well if you want an office near transit, work, or home. Virtual appointments can also expand your options, especially when you want a therapist with specific LGBTQIA+ experience, a shared background, or scheduling flexibility. Before booking, read each bio for details on approach, communication style, availability, and whether a free phone consultation is offered.

Therapy in Chicago can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and understand what you may pay before care begins. Headway helps you compare therapists who are accepting new patients, review detailed profiles, verify insurance, and see estimated out-of-pocket costs before booking. You can browse LGBTQIA+ therapists in Chicago, filter by what matters to you, and book directly when you’re ready.

Find a provider - your way

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1 Cost may vary based on your location, age, and insurance coverage.