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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 836 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.

Sierra Abel

Sierra Abel

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I specialize in working with individuals struggling with disordered eating and body image concerns. I am EMDR trained and also a certified yoga instructor.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Susan Killelea

Susan Killelea

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I offer individual and sex therapy via telehealth for adults all over Illinois.

My areas of specialization include sexuality and gender exploration and affirmation, building strong and ethical nonmonogamous relationships, addressing anxiety and avoidance, and developing confidence communicating desires, feelings and boundaries.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Identity issues, Relationship issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Pamela Bowers

Pamela Bowers

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hi, I’m Pamela — a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for supporting young and older adults, women, and families as they navigate life’s transitions, challenges, and opportunities for growth.

I come from an urban community and understand the importance of feeling seen, supported, and understood — especially when you’re working to create a better future for yourself and your family. That perspective is at the heart of my work. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can show up as your full self. Whether you’re facing anxiety, relationship challenges, identity concerns, or self-esteem struggles, I’ll Walk beside you as you find clarity and confidence.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Skip Dettman

Skip Dettman

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hello, I am Skip I have been a therapist for over 12 years. I love what I do and am passionate about assisting people with addressing life issues. I specialize in trauma, addictions and couples therapy.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Daniel Atkins

Daniel Atkins

Psychologist

Virtual • Illinois


“He works with trauma conditioning in all forms and offers a safe, compassionate space to explore your issues and uncover the roots of your distress.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Energetic, Holistic
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Darrick Melton

Darrick Melton

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I work to establish a therapeutic environment so that clients know that they have a safe space to be themselves.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Melinda (Mindy) Rader

Melinda (Mindy) Rader

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


Hello.

  • I’m excited about working together.

I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience assessing and treating a broad range of psychiatric conditions. I see patients from young adults through older adulthood. My practice is largely focused on adults dealing with stress, mood changes, sleep issues, and the cumulative weight of work, relationships, and responsibility, and questions of spirituality. I respect your time, your autonomy, and your intelligence.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Humorous, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Susan Pagels

Susan Pagels

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My goal is to provide a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Jessica Ruiz

Jessica Ruiz

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My goal is to provide a supportive space where you can build confidence, reconnect with yourself, and feel more comfortable becoming the person you want to be.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Micaela Chappelle

Micaela Chappelle

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Master of Social Work that is passionate about supporting women, teens, and those who are navigating trauma, depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues, low self-esteem, and life stressors. Perhaps you who have not felt like yourself or have not found your voice due to everyone else having a say about your life choices. I believe that healing begins in a space where you feel heard, understood, and genuinely supported. With nine years experience and through lived experience, my work focuses on helping you manage those concerns, as I have worked with multiple populations including children, teens, and adults.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Emily Spillios

Emily Spillios

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I’m Emily, a licensed psychotherapist and Clinical Social Worker with a specialization in healthcare from Aurora University. I have extensive experience across various levels of care—including inpatient psychiatric settings, residential treatment, PHP/IOP, and community mental health—I have dedicated my career to supporting individuals facing co-occurring disorders, addiction, eating disorders, and trauma.

Through my work with complex cases, I have observed that many challenges are deeply rooted in trauma and systemic issues.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Creative, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Aiden Sismondo

Aiden Sismondo

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I’m Aiden, a Licensed Clinical Social worker that is specialize in trauma informed care and LGBTQIA affirming therapy. My clients would say that I am a warm and down-to-earth therapist that affirms and gives space for you to be yourself.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Crystal Williams

Crystal Williams

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My clinical treatment approaches are collage of multiple treatment modalities such as Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT)/compassion focused/ emotional focused/ psychodynamic therapy/solution focused/ and strength based...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Challenging, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jaime Williamson

Jaime Williamson

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe therapy should feel like a space where you can show up as you are without judgment while also building practical tools for real change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Holly Lewis

Holly Lewis

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My practice is rooted in compassion, respect, and a deep belief that you are the expert in your own life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Inquisitive, Participatory
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Tiffany Johnson-Bey

Tiffany Johnson-Bey

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, neurodivergent clients...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Diana Carter

Diana Carter

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


My style is eclectic and strength based. I see human nature as intrinsically good. Sigmund Freud said we are bio-social animals. I believe a great deal in listening to one’s self talk. The more positive our dialogue with ourselves is, the more positive our dialogues with others and our lives are. I’m also experienced in CBT, DBT, MI, Solution Focused, ACT, Gestalt, Interpersonal, and person-centered counseling.

My training includes lots of wonderful supervision and workshops, a three-year certificate from the Gestalt Institute of Chicago, and two one month intensives with Virginia Satir, the founder of family therapy. Virginia taught that exploring the self is like mining gold. We all have gold inside of us. That is our basic goodness. A lot of emotional suffering is the result of being detoured from that basic goodness.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Lindsay Wolff

Lindsay Wolff

Therapist

Virtual • Chicago, IL


As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe that prioritizing mental health is an integral part of quality of life. Congratulations on taking the first step towards self improvement! I have been practicing for 20 years with a focus on individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, and difficulty with life transitions. I am also passionate about working with couples who are experiencing disconnection, conflict, and communication issues.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Inquisitive, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Rachel Patis

Rachel Patis

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My practice is rooted in a person-centered approach, meaning your unique goals, values, and lived experiences drive our work together.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dena Sidmore-Seyer

Dena Sidmore-Seyer

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I'm passionate about helping people feel empowered, heal, and move toward lives that feel meaningful and authentic.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Open-minded
Accepts 7 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
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
James Wren

James Wren

Therapist

Virtual • Chicago, IL


“Much of my practice focuses on supporting LGBTQ+ clients and exploring the complex questions that can arise in their lives and relationships.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Family issues
Direct, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dwight Bejec

Dwight Bejec

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I take a trauma-informed, holistic approach to mental health care and incorporate various therapeutic modalities as appropriate, depending on your needs.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Analise Atchison

Analise Atchison

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe that prioritizing your mental health is among the most rewarding things you can do. Asking for help is never easy. Congratulations on taking that first step. With 9 years of experience working in the mental health field, I have enjoyed working with a diverse range of clients, with a particular focus on ADHD, trauma, and LGBTQ issues. No matter what your story is, I am here to walk beside you on your journey to greater well-being.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Chaniqua White

Chaniqua White

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I have a special interest in supporting LGBTQ+ clients and creating an affirming space where you can show up authentically.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
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 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Rashid A. Raja

Dr. Rashid A. Raja

Psychologist

Virtual • Illinois


“I firmly believe that my pragmatic therapeutic style and clinically proven treatment approaches can be highly instrumental in helping you learn effective ways to resolve your emotional pain...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Creative, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Ana Drake

Ana Drake

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I work with the clients to navigate their difficulties through evidence-based approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, person-centered therapy, solution focus etc.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Svetlana Burak

Svetlana Burak

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I provide a compassionate environment so you can safely explore your worries and other emotions that come with being human.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Anabelle Doulas

Anabelle Doulas

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Illinois and Michigan, I believe that therapy is your space, shaped by what you need right now.

With 13+ years of experience in community mental health, residential treatment, and inpatient psychiatry, I provide therapy and parent coaching to:

  • Children (5 years and older) & Families
  • Young Adults & Adults
  • Parents & Caregivers

I work alongside individuals navigating hard moments—especially those who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or powerless. Often, the people I work with are themselves experiencing or have a loved one impacted by:

  • major life stress or conflict at home or school/work
  • trauma
  • grief and loss
  • depression
  • anxiety
  • psychosis
  • mania
  • substance use

You are the expert on your own life and your own healing. My role is to meet you where you are and walk with you on your path, sometimes guiding, sometimes following, but mostly walking side-by-side.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ariel Harris

Ariel Harris

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I believe therapy should be a place where you don’t have to have it all together. Many of my clients are high-achieving professionals who are used to being the “strong one” for everyone else, but privately struggle with relationships, boundaries, confidence, or life transitions. I strive to create a warm, collaborative space where you can show up authentically, gain insight into patterns that no longer serve you, and build healthier relationships with yourself and others. I especially enjoy working with Black women and LGBTQ+ adults and strive to create an affirming, culturally responsive space where clients can show up fully as themselves.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Inquisitive, Participatory
Accepts 12 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tomario Stamps

Tomario Stamps

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My approach is client-centered, so I meet you where you are—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually—tailoring our work to your unique needs and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 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, Direct, Inquisitive
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Jacqueline Vaca

Jacqueline Vaca

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe healing begins when you feel truly heard, but it grows through insight, self-compassion, and practical tools that help you move differently in your daily life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Mercy Abunaw

Mercy Abunaw

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“During our sessions together, I will treat you with respect, compassion and understanding, exploring every evidence-based medication or technique possible to help you overcome the challenges that have been holding you back.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Andrew Ritchie

Andrew Ritchie

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I take an approach to therapy that is centered on you, and so I rely a lot on what you bring to therapy to be able to identify the skills and tools that are best suited for helping you.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jamie Smith

Jamie Smith

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe the relationship we build is central to the healing process, and I show up as a real person in the room with you.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 19 insurance carriers
Grant Tyler

Grant Tyler

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


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.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists in Aurora, IL

Number of therapists serving Aurora, IL
There are over 820 therapists in Aurora, IL accepting new patients.
820+
Average years in practice
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10 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 95%Depression
  • 92%Stress management
  • 86%Relationship issues
Insurances accepted
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  • 99%Aetna
  • 95%Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois
  • 86%Cigna
  • 85%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 65%Ascension
Languages spoken
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  • 99%English
  • 7%Spanish
  • 1%Hindi
  • 1%French
  • 1%Urdu
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 86%Online only
  • 14%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 73%Woman
  • 23%Man
  • 4%Non-binary
License types
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  • 49%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 32%Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
  • 5%Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
  • 5%Clinical Psychologist
  • 4%Full Practice Authority Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
Treatment approaches
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  • 99%Individual therapy
  • 39%Family therapy
  • 29%Couples therapy
  • 18%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.

Find a provider - your way

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