LGBT therapists in Illinois

You deserve a therapist who knows the terrain. I’ve been where you are. I have experienced mental health from every angle—as someone who has done the deep personal work, as someone who has navigated the pain of losing loved ones to suicide, and now as a therapist. When I suggest a tool or a shift in perspective, it’s because I practice what I preach. I know the freedom that comes from setting boundaries and building a life you truly love, and I want that same transformation for you.

A perspective shaped by the world: Growing up with over 30 exchange students from around the globe taught me early on that everyone’s "normal" looks different. This curiosity follows me outside the office, too. This love for travel and culture keeps my mind open and my spirit curious—traits I bring into every session we share.

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.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) with years of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. My background includes working in schools, military communities, and private practice settings, which has given me a deep understanding of the unique challenges people face in different life stages and environments. I am passionate about creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel supported, respected, and empowered to grow.

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.

I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to compassionate, thoughtful, and evidence-based mental health care. With more than a decade of experience in psychiatry, emergency medicine, trauma, and clinical leadership, I bring a broad skill set to my work, but human connection remains at the center of my approach.

I believe every person deserves to feel heard and supported. I help individuals navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and other mental health challenges with clarity and compassion. I take time to understand your story, collaborate on your goals, and create a treatment plan that fits your life.

My diverse background, from trauma care to outpatient psychiatry and clinical education, has strengthened my commitment to high-quality, collaborative care for patients of all ages.

At Granted Mental Health Services, my mission is to provide accessible, patient-centered care that honors your experiences and supports your journey toward a healthier, more balanced life. I’m grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside you.

Hi, my name is Dr. Mark Aghakhan and I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in a variety of therapeutic, educative, consultative, and evaluative services. I utilize interventions that best match my client’s style and approach toward everyday challenges.

I specialize in working with teens and adults navigating things like school refusal, emotional dysregulation, anger, self harm, anxiety, depression, OCD, life transitions, and personal growth. I work with teens ages 13 to 18 as well as adults, and my goal is to create a space where you feel understood, supported, and not alone in what you are going through.

Outside of my work, I enjoy being creative, staying organized, and spending time with my husband, our dog, and our two daughters, which helps me stay grounded and connected in my own life as well.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who attained my Master's in clinical counseling at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I have approximately 15 years of experience providing compassionate and effecting counseling services in an array of settings including both community and hospital based.

I take pride in having the opportunity to serve a diverse population which has included children, adults, couples, and families across a broad spectrum of needs. Some of the unique needs have included supporting individuals who are seeking to gain a better approach to their life while going through difficulties with self-identity, relationship challenges, trauma, substance use issues, or navigating challenging life transitions.

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.

Welcome!

Life is not always easy. For some, perhaps it never has been. In times of struggle and transition having a compassionate, competent therapist can be immensely beneficial. Whether needing support, processing grief, working through trauma or any number of other life stressors I will be present to assist you in making lasting change. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years' experience. I would love to assist you in making positive changes in your life.