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LGBT therapists in Aurora, IL

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

Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Aurora, IL

Aurora residents can access mental health support through Headway's 758 licensed providers, many offering warm, solution-oriented care for gender and sexual identity-related concerns. Sessions are available in-person or virtually, with flexible scheduling and significant cost savings through insurance partnerships.

Patrick Noonan

Patrick Noonan

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 4 mi away • Aurora, IL


“I value the process of building a connection with my clients in order to set a strong foundation for our time in therapy.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Michelle Hall

Michelle Hall

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 3.1 mi away • North Aurora, IL


“My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. I integrate CBT, DBT, ACT, mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing to help clients recognize patterns, build effective coping skills, and create lasting change.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Andre Joachim

Andre Joachim

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 1.8 mi away • Aurora, IL


I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who believes therapy should feel real, human, and grounded in honest conversation. With experience in community mental health, treatment courts, group work, and clinical supervision, in addition to working with individuals navigating trauma, identity, and personal change. I also teach and mentor future counselors while researching the psychological experiences of individuals living with vitiligo. I bring a little bit of humor into therapy, because let’s face it, in this day and age a little bit of laughing takes stress off our already hectic lives; though when it is time to get serious, we will address all and any issues that may be hindering your pathways of life. My philosophy: “people are more than their labels, and growth begins when people feel seen, heard, and respected.”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Habibat Owolabi

Habibat Owolabi

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • Naperville, IL


“I take time to listen, understand your story, and work with you to create a plan that feels realistic and supportive.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Michele Filecia-Treptow

Michele Filecia-Treptow

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 10 mi away • Naperville, IL


Your experience with me will always be grounded in compassion, honesty, and respect. I believe people grow when they feel heard and understood, so I work hard to create a space where you feel safe being yourself. I am collaborative and down-to-earth, and I will meet you exactly where you are while helping you move toward the life you want.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Hildred Amegashie

Hildred Amegashie

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 12 mi away • Plainfield, IL


“My approach to providing care is compassionate, evidence-based, and holistic. I believe in treating each client as a whole person...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Dr. Kasey Huff

Dr. Kasey Huff

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 11 mi away • Naperville, IL


“I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore your innermost self including your passion, beliefs, motivation, historical challenges and emotions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Mary Ford

Mary Ford

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 11 mi away • St. Charles, IL


“I strive to create a calm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel genuinely heard and understood.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michelle Moore

Michelle Moore

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 17 mi away • Lombard, IL


“My approach is behavioral, holistic, and individualized. I meet clients where they are while helping them build practical coping skills, confidence, emotional awareness, and healthier ways of navigating life's challenges.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Creative, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Raul Arambula

Raul Arambula

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 18 mi away • Joliet, IL


“I believe therapy should feel like a safe place where you can be honest, feel understood, and work toward meaningful change without judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Fanisha Calvert

Fanisha Calvert

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 20 mi away • Oak Brook, IL


“At every therapy session, we work together to explore your emotional experiences as well as the thoughts and behaviors that may be holding you back from living the life you desire.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, End of life care, Family issues
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Myriah Vargo

Myriah Vargo

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 20 mi away • Hinsdale, IL


“My treatment style matches your personality and symptoms, with my quick sense of humor and proven techniques that will maximize effectiveness.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Douglas DeRhodes

Douglas DeRhodes

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 22 mi away • Western Springs, IL


“I provide individually tailored treatment in a safe and supportive environment that draws and builds upon each person's strengths, resources, wisdom and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Maggie Zofkie

Maggie Zofkie

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 21 mi away • Hinsdale, IL


“I believe clients who are willing to show up honestly, even when it feels uncomfortable, will get the most out of their therapy experience.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Deborah Danner

Dr. Deborah Danner

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 22 mi away • Elgin, IL


“Dr. Danner strives to provide culturally sensitive care and welcomes each client as they are in the therapy space.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Ken Weber

Ken Weber

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 23 mi away • Westchester, IL


“Working with me, you can expect honesty and unconditional positive regard from someone who always works in your best interest.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 15 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ronald Bennett

Ronald Bennett

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 25 mi away • DeKalb, IL


“Helping each individual to regulate their emotions and feel at ease in speaking freely about personal concerns.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Creative, Empowering
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Aleks Kico

Aleks Kico

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 26 mi away • Inverness, IL


“Therapy, at its best, is not about blame or quick fixes, it's about clarity, responsibility, and learning how to move forward with strength and purpose.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Inquisitive, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Monica Marchant-Silva

Monica Marchant-Silva

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 26 mi away • Inverness, IL


“I aim to provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental therapeutic space and aim to meet you where you are at.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 16 insurance carriers
Dr. Mykal Merrill

Dr. Mykal Merrill

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Skokie, IL


“I believe people make sense when you understand the full context of their lives - their relationships, culture, identity, environment, history, and the experiences that shaped them.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Joan Fadonugbo-Kuton

Joan Fadonugbo-Kuton

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Chicago, IL


“I am dedicated to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues and actively promoting awareness in this area.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Open-minded, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jacob Bobrow

Jacob Bobrow

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Lincolnwood, IL


“I believe healing is about aligning mind, body, and daily life with the future you deserve and the goals you seek to achieve.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Shelley Johnson

Shelley Johnson

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Ringwood, IL


“I believe that mental wellness is a journey; and if one is willing to put in the effort, anything can be achieved.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Tomario Stamps

Tomario Stamps

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Great to meet you! I’m Mario (or Tomario), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families through life's toughest challenges. Whether you're navigating career stress, relationship difficulties, family conflicts, depression, or substance use, my goal is to serve as a supportive catalyst for positive change in your life.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Khiara Mills

Khiara Mills

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe therapy should feel collaborative, authentic, and tailored to your unique needs and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Stress management, Trauma
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Loren Phillips

Loren Phillips

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I am warm, direct, and collaborative, and I bring genuine curiosity and deep respect to every session.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Justin Gravely-Strayhorn

Dr. Justin Gravely-Strayhorn

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


A lot of men arrive in therapy through anger, because it is often the only feeling they were ever given permission to have. If that is you, or if the anxiety has been running underneath everything for years, or if something happened to you that you have never said out loud, you are in the right place. I'm Dr. Justin D. Gravely-Strayhorn, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my Master of Social Work from Campbellsville University and my Doctor of Education from Liberty University. I work with adults on anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, relationships, and the particular weight men carry when they have been taught that handling it alone is the same thing as being strong. Culture is part of that conversation, not separate from it. What shaped you, what was expected of you, and what it costs to keep performing being fine all belong in the room. My approach combines evidence-based therapy with compassion, cultural awareness, and a holistic view of wellness. I believe growth happens when we feel seen, supported, and empowered to rewrite our stories.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Nicole M. Heller

Nicole M. Heller

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Therapy is not about fixing you—it's about helping you better understand yourself, strengthen your relationships, and create a life that feels more aligned with your goals!”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Barbara Duran

Barbara Duran

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


When stress starts to build, it can affect more than just your day-to-day life. It can impact your mood, your energy, and your relationships. I work with adults and couples who are navigating anxiety, depression, workplace stress, and burnout. Many of my clients are used to juggling responsibilities, caring for others, and pushing through difficult seasons until they realize they're no longer feeling like themselves. You might feel constantly overwhelmed, mentally exhausted, or like you can’t fully “turn off” your mind. At the same time, stress can begin to show up in your relationships through miscommunication, distance, or frustration, making it harder to feel connected and supported.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 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 10 insurance carriers
Tabitha Keller

Tabitha Keller

Therapist

Virtual • Charleston, IL


“I specialize in trauma and often use EMDR and IFS. I enjoy working with individuals in the queer community.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Christina Miksis

Christina Miksis

Psychologist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is warm, practical, and collaborative. I want therapy to be a place where you feel comfortable being honest about what's going on while also gaining a clearer understanding of what may be keeping you stuck.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Stephanie Darche

Stephanie Darche

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Swansea, IL


Hello! I’m Stephanie Darche, MA, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor(LCPC). My therapeutic style is empowering, nonjudgmental, warm, genuine and down to earth.

I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience in working with clients with concerns related to anxiety, depression, parenting, family conflict, communication, LGBTQI+, child/adolescent adjustment, behavior and mood disorders, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, ADHD, self-esteem, and life transitions.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Dr. Lisa Hines

Dr. Lisa Hines

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I have over 3 decades of experience working in the fields of mental health and social work. I work with youth, adults, and couples who are struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, relationship issues, and school refusal.

I have spent my career learning and translating theories into practice with individuals, families, couples, and groups. For the last few years, I've gained deeper knowledge working with trauma, anxiety, couples, and the LGBTQIA+ population.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 14 insurance carriers
Keri Harshbarger

Keri Harshbarger

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe therapy is a collaborative process, and your goals, experiences, and needs are at the center of our work.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Jill Sisler

Jill Sisler

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is warm, open-minded, and empowering, and I believe therapy should be a place where you feel understood while also making meaningful progress.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 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 10 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 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Yash Bedi

Yash Bedi

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with a background that includes years of work with people navigating some of the hardest chapters of their lives — including incarcerated individuals, people struggling with addiction, and those carrying cultural weight that doesn't show up in a standard intake form. I'm South Asian, I grew up navigating two worlds, and that shapes how I show up for clients who've had to figure things out without a clear map. I don't do therapy with a clipboard. I'm direct, I'm real, and I'm genuinely interested in what's underneath the surface.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kristin Elatkin

Kristin Elatkin

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Rolling Meadows, IL


“I take a holistic approach to mental health, understanding that psychological, emotional, and physical well-being are interconnected.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists in Aurora, IL

Number of therapists serving Aurora, IL
There are over 759 therapists in Aurora, IL accepting new patients.
759+
Average years in practice
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10 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 99%Anxiety
  • 96%Depression
  • 92%Stress management
  • 87%Trauma
Insurances accepted
Watercolor illustration of insurance cards
  • 99%Aetna
  • 97%Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois
  • 89%Cigna
  • 87%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 69%Ascension
Languages spoken
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  • 99%English
  • 7%Spanish
  • 1%Hindi
  • 1%Urdu
  • 1%French
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 90%Online only
  • 10%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 73%Woman
  • 24%Man
  • 3%Non-binary
License types
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  • 49%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 33%Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
  • 6%Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
  • 5%Full Practice Authority Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
  • 4%Clinical Psychologist
Treatment approaches
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  • 99%Individual therapy
  • 41%Family therapy
  • 30%Couples therapy
  • 19%Child or adolescent therapy

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 a LGBTQIA Therapist in Aurora

Finding LGBTQIA+ therapists in Aurora starts with looking for care that is affirming, specific, and aligned with what you want support for. An LGBTQ affirming therapist in Aurora may support people with identity exploration, gender identity, coming out, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, or stress related to family, work, or community experiences. As you compare options, look for therapists who name affirmative therapy, gender-diverse experience, or World Professional Association for Transgender Health training in their profiles. These details can help you find a therapist whose background matches your needs.

Aurora has local therapy options, and virtual appointments can expand access to LGBTQIA+ therapy in Aurora, IL, especially when you want a therapist with specific experience in LGBTQIA+ care. You may also want to compare appointment times, whether a therapist offers in-person or virtual sessions, and whether they provide a free phone consultation before booking. Reading bios closely can help you spot therapists who explicitly mention LGBTQIA+ populations, transgender therapy, therapy for gender identity, or queer clients in their work.

Therapy in Aurora can be a significant expense without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs. Headway helps you search for LGBTQ friendly therapists in Aurora who are accepting new patients, review detailed bios, check estimated out-of-pocket costs before booking, and find care that fits your schedule, preferences, and insurance plan.

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