LGBT therapists in Arlington Heights, IL

Are you someone who has spent much of your life being strong for everyone else—caring for others, holding things together, and continuing to move forward even when you feel overwhelmed? Maybe somewhere along the way, you’ve lost touch with yourself or found yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, past trauma, grief, relationship challenges, or your own sense of self-worth.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who works with adults and adolescents to better understand the experiences, emotions, and patterns that may be affecting their lives and relationships. I believe meaningful healing begins with greater self-awareness and understanding. My approach is warm, compassionate, trauma-informed, and collaborative, while also providing the support and gentle challenge needed for growth. Together, we can work toward healthier boundaries, stronger relationships, greater self-worth, and lasting change that helps you feel more grounded, confident, and connected to the life you want to create.

Cub Larkin is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (FL & MA), and is a Licensed Professional Counselor (IL, ME, OR). Cub specializes in working with clients who identify as LGBTQIA+. Cub also enjoys working with clients who have interest in kink, BDSM, dominant/submissive relationships, and those who are trying to navigate in polyamorous or ethical / consensual non-monogamous relationships.

I have been a therapist for over twenty five years with a varied background including hospice, nursing homes, home care and individual counseling settings. I became a licensed, clinical social worker after graduating from the University of IL-Urbana 30 years ago.

I have been in practice for 15 years

Use of efficacious techniques to help clients find the root cause of their problems

I believe in a slow therapeutic process which affords clients the ability to learn a healthy perspective about themselves, the world around them and significant relationships in their lives

Welcome!

I’m Kendra, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois and a Certified Somatic Therapy Practitioner. With over 10 years of experience, I support individuals in reconnecting with themselves and navigating anxiety, stress, and life transitions with greater clarity and ease.

My approach blends somatic (mind-body) therapy with nature-based practices to support deeper awareness, emotional regulation, and lasting change. I believe healing happens when we learn to listen to our bodies, not just our thoughts. I am committed to creating a safe, affirming space for LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC individuals, where your full identity and experiences are welcomed and respected.

I believe healing happens when you feel truly seen, heard, and accepted exactly as you are. Therapy doesn’t have to feel cold or clinical—it can be genuine, collaborative, and even include moments of laughter along the way.

I earned my Bachelor of Social Work from Western Illinois University and my Master of Social Work from Arizona State University. I’ve been practicing as a master’s-level social worker since 2010 and have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for the past three years. I’m also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a highly effective, evidence-based therapy that helps people heal from trauma and distressing life experiences.

As an independently licensed professional counselor, counselor educator, and supervisor, I believe that everyone deserves a space where they can feel heard, supported, and accepted. I've been practicing for 15 years and hold a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a doctorate in Counselor Education, and a Fellowship in Thanatology with specialized expertise in grief and loss. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and someone with AuDHD, I bring both professional knowledge and lived experience to my work. My goal is to create a warm, affirming environment where you can show up as your authentic self and move toward meaningful change.

My journey stems from my own story of resilience in the face of hardships. I became a therapist because I have always wanted to help people through some of their darkest hours. Being exposed to some dark hours myself, I know that it is difficult to do it alone. When you have someone to confide in, assist you through the hard times, and just let you know that you are not alone, makes a difference.

My therapeutic approach includes CBT, Person-Centered Therapy, Relational Therapy, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, SFT, EFT, IFS, and just speaking like a human being. I offer a compassionate, trauma-informed space where you can feel safe, seen, and supported. My approach is relational and personalized—we'll explore your story together, build coping tools, and move toward healing with curiosity, courage, and care.

Therapy with me is real, down-to-earth, and never boring. I mix honesty, humor, and heart to make the process comfortable. I help adults manage emotions, build confidence, and tackle life's challenges with tools that work. Think of it as a safe space to be yourself, grow, and maybe laugh along the way. Please book here or at https://evolvetothrive9.com.