LGBT therapists in Elgin, IL

I have provided counseling services for over 20 years, helping clients work through trauma, PTSD, anxiety, panic, stress, family challenges, and women’s issues. I specialize in supporting people who feel stuck in painful memories, overwhelmed by anxiety, or disconnected from themselves after difficult life experiences. My approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and deeply respectful of each person’s story. I believe healing often involves more than traditional talk therapy, which is why I incorporate approaches that support the mind, body, and spirit. I am an EMDRIA Certified Therapist and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, and I use EMDR, somatic therapy, attachment-based therapy, interpersonal therapy, and other trauma-informed approaches to help clients move toward relief and healing. When we work together, you can expect a caring space where you are accepted as you are and supported at a pace that feels safe.

Living with anxiety, depression, or chronic stress can make everyday life feel heavy and unfair, and it’s normal to feel drained by ongoing worry, low mood, or tension. You may have trouble sleeping, concentrating, or enjoying things you once liked, and reaching out for help can feel like a big step. Seeking support is a meaningful move toward feeling steadier and more hopeful. These struggles often affect work, relationships, and self-esteem, whether the worry shows up as panic, persistent low mood, or chronic stress. Together we'll explore what keeps these patterns going and build practical ways to feel more balanced and connected

You’re capable and use to managing a lot, but lately life feels overwhelming.

I’m Ashley Walay, LICSW, and I work with BIPOC women and LGBTQ+ individuals, professionals, single parents, and military-connected individuals (including spouses, veterans, contractors, and civilian employees) experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, chronic stress, and life transitions.

I value clear, direct communication and tailor therapy to your needs, whether you want tools or space to process. Together, we’ll work toward greater clarity, balance, and confidence.

Greetings, I'm Debbie Palmer Thomas, a clinical social worker from Colorado. My approach to counseling is both welcoming and engaging. I uphold the values of respect, understanding, and kindness in every interaction. I firmly believe that everyone possesses inherent strengths, and with a sprinkle of hope, resilience is within reach for all. When you're prepared to make that leap, know that I stand by your side, ready to uplift and guide you.

Hi, I’m Carllie Meeks, a licensed therapist specializing in eating disorders, body image, and identity work. I hold a Masters degree from Loyola University Chicago and have extensive experience supporting adults in their recovery through a culturally responsive and trauma-informed lens. My approach integrates evidence-based therapies with compassion and curiosity, helping clients reconnect with their bodies and sense of self. I’m especially passionate about creating affirming spaces for BIPOC individuals navigating healing and self-acceptance

Hello, I am Jonathan. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience. I am committed to creating therapeutic spaces for others to be able to trust and receive a positive experience out of therapy. I am from Chicago and love all sports teams. I love giving back to my community and also spending time doing things in life that matter the most. I am a three time graduate of the University of Illinois (Go Illini). I am a believer that WE will get through any challenges that you have by supporting you through during your journey and counseling for you to live life to the fullest capacity beyond your counseling journey.

I am a licensed clinical social worker, clinical supervisor, and psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience helping individuals navigate trauma, emotional distress, and life transitions.

My career has included work in schools, outpatient counseling centers, and hospital settings, where I supported individuals facing mood disorders, addiction, and psychosis. I’ve worked with clients across the lifespan—from young children to older adults—and bring a broad, real-world perspective to my practice.

As a certified trainer in trauma-informed care, I use practical, effective tools to help you better understand your emotional responses, regulate stress, and feel more grounded. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your specific needs. I draw from a range of therapeutic techniques to help you gain insight, shift patterns, and move forward with greater clarity and confidence.

Clients often tell me that our work together helps them feel less overwhelmed, more self-aware, and better able to cope with life’s challenges. I strive to create a space where you feel understood, supported, and comfortable being yourself.

Some of the feedback that I received from clients are:

"You give me a perspective so I don’t get stuck and I realize I don’t have to solve it all at once

"You have forever affected how I look at things in a positive way"

"You changed how I look at things. I know I can do it, so I achieve it. The re-parenting thing gives me a way to understand people and myself."

"You help people be comfortable in their own skin."

I'm Brad and I'm a therapist in North Austin who specializes in treating PTSD, depression, and anxiety. My style has been described as compassionate, mindful, and relational. My primary modality is Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), a structured intervention which treats PTSD by challenging unproductive beliefs generated by the traumatic event.

Currently, I am only accepting new clients who are trans.

I am a trans and queer LCSW and artist with 15 years of experience in community mental health. I completed my MSW and MA in Gender Studies at Loyola University Chicago. Before grad school, I worked in reproductive justice, body autonomy, and community care. Life experiences have led me to provide therapy with a focus on community care through an anti oppressive lens.

I was an activist long before I was a therapist, and I bridge these approaches in my work. Chicago parents, queers, spoonies, feminists, sex workers, polyfolx and weirdos of all stripes: I got you.

Hi there, Jenny here! I believe therapy is about learning how to bend without breaking. I specialize in working with individuals and couples facing trauma, chronic stress, and high-demand roles like military, first responder, high level executives AND those that care for them. These are the people that are usually holding it all together for others!

I have a special connection to these populations as an Air Force brat, Air Force Veteran, and Air Force Spouse - quite literally not a day of my life untouched by the military! I have more than 20 years' experience working with children, youth, families and couples around their life challenges and transitions.