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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.

Cherchaela Spellen

Cherchaela Spellen

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe therapy is a collaborative journey, and I am honored to walk alongside my clients as they pursue healing, resilience, and lasting change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jennifer Kovachevich

Jennifer Kovachevich

Therapist

Virtual • Plainfield, IL


I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Benedictine University. I have been working in private practice for over 10 years, helping adolescents and adults navigate life’s challenges and create meaningful, lasting change.

My areas of specialization include trauma and couples counseling, and I have a particular passion for working with women. I understand that women often carry many different roles and responsibilities, and sometimes lose sight of their own needs in the process. I enjoy helping women work through anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, life transitions, and the many unexpected circumstances that can leave us feeling stuck or overwhelmed.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Matt Wolff

Matt Wolff

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is warm, relational, and grounded in both depth and practicality—and I'm a firm believer in the healing power of humor as a bridge to insight, connection, and hope.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Andrea Hansen

Andrea Hansen

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I think everyone deserves a space to feel comfortable and validated and I hope to always provide this with my clients.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Mykel Wolfe

Mykel Wolfe

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I bring those values into every session... My goal is to guide you toward wellness and balance in your relationships, your daily life, and your sense of self.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 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
Gretchen Aich

Gretchen Aich

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


Hi, I’m Gretchen, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP, ANCC) with a Master of Science in Nursing from Lewis University. I work with individuals, teens, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, ADHD, and substance use concerns, providing care in both English and Spanish. I bring experience from emergency departments, inpatient units, outpatient clinics, and private practice, and I strive to create a safe, judgment-free space where clients feel heard, respected, and supported. I value collaboration and flexibility, tailoring each session to your needs so you can feel empowered to make meaningful changes.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Akamin Nkengaka

Dr. Akamin Nkengaka

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Together, we'll create a safe space to understand what's holding you back, strengthen healthy coping skills, and help you build a life that feels more balanced, connected, and meaningful.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Katherine Cooper

Katherine Cooper

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is practical, collaborative, and grounded in helping you understand both your thoughts and your nervous system.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Michelle Barraco Hatchett

Michelle Barraco Hatchett

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I strive to create an emotionally supportive, non-judgmental and safe environment while providing clinical insight.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 16 insurance carriers
Ken Markovic

Ken Markovic

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Creative, Warm
Accepts 17 insurance carriers
Frances Morken

Frances Morken

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I am a compassionate therapist specializing in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), helping clients build balance, resilience, and emotional clarity.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ronald Sumpter

Ronald Sumpter

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is supportive, honest, and engaged, with a focus on helping you feel safe enough to explore difficult things while also building tools that help you move forward.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Therasa Yehling

Therasa Yehling

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe people are capable of healing and growth, and I strive to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore challenges, build resilience, and create meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Grief or loss
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Charlotte Manyitabot

Charlotte Manyitabot

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and dementia, using a supportive and empathetic approach to create a safe space for healing and growth.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Daryl Flink

Daryl Flink

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I empower my clients to achieve a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. The goal of our work together is to unlock the best version of your authentic self.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Melissa Conrad

Melissa Conrad

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe that meaningful recovery begins with feeling heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Energetic, Open-minded
Accepts 3 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
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
Meghan Kroes

Meghan Kroes

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe healing begins through authentic connection, emotional safety, and the opportunity to explore your experiences without judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Infertility
Affirming, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Joshua Bird-Martinez

Joshua Bird-Martinez

Therapist

Virtual • Chicago, IL


Our experiences don't define us, but rather they shape how we navigate our lives and relationships. The journey into therapy can feel overwhelming, requiring us to open up to a stranger and share our most challenging moments. My goal is to work collaboratively with you to learn about those challenges and how to best support you as you embark on this journey of healing.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Energetic, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Pamela Lees

Pamela Lees

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hello, I am Pamela "Paige" Lees. I have been a licensed therapist for 30 years. I have worked with a wide variety of people and together tackled a multitude of life's problems. I have a master's degree in clinical psychology from the University of Illinois and a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Eastern Illinois University. I enjoy working with individuals and I specialize family problems of all kinds.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Christina Lipe

Dr. Christina Lipe

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Mount Vernon, IL


“My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and down-to-earth. I believe therapy can be meaningful and challenging without feeling cold or clinical.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Inquisitive
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Bridgette McClure

Bridgette McClure

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is collaborative, steady, and real — someone who helps you feel understood and genuinely supported in making change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Trevor Cavness

Trevor Cavness

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe care works best when it's a true partnership. We'll talk openly about what's going on, explore different options together, and build a plan that feels right for you.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Patricia Earnshaw

Patricia Earnshaw

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Alton, IL


Often, struggles can become gateways to transformation. Many of the clients I work with are navigating low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, chronic stress, trauma, grief, or major life transitions that leave them feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected. You may be experiencing racing thoughts, emotional exhaustion, relationship difficulties, loss, or uncertainty about your direction in life. When we begin to explore these experiences with compassion and curiosity, new perspectives and meaningful change can emerge.

I believe telling your story in a safe, supportive space can be deeply healing. I want to hear about your hopes, dreams, challenges, and losses. My goal is to help you better understand your experiences, develop emotional resilience, and move toward greater clarity and self-acceptance. You are not alone, and I am here to walk alongside you as you move forward on your journey toward healing and growth.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Danielle Pertiller

Danielle Pertiller

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is direct, compassionate, and as "real as it's going to get". I help clients who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from themselves find clarity, confidence, and emotional freedom.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Sam Shabsin

Sam Shabsin

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I bring an energetic, warm, and direct approach to therapy. I believe meaningful change happens when you feel supported while also feeling empowered to grow.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Energetic, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Jennifer Ruggeri

Jennifer Ruggeri

Therapist

Virtual • Chicago, IL


“My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy and evidence-based techniques, allowing me to create a safe and nurturing environment for my clients.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 13 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
Vincent Henneburg

Vincent Henneburg

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I'm passionate about helping people understand themselves better, build meaningful and lasting relationships, and feel more in control of where they are headed.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jodi Huffman Frazee

Jodi Huffman Frazee

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“My years in inpatient psychiatry have shaped my calm, grounded approach and deep understanding of severe and persistent mental illness.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Diabetes
Direct, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Dr. Shelly Scamardo

Dr. Shelly Scamardo

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • 29 mi away • Barrington, IL


“I believe everyone has the inner strength to grow and thrive. My approach is warm, collaborative, and rooted in compassion and evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Diabetes
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 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
Kristen Svatos

Kristen Svatos

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Des Plaines, IL


“I like to take a humanistic, client centered approach to therapy utilizing client strengths to create a collaborative, safe environment to process trauma and experiences...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Empowering
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Debra Baran

Debra Baran

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Crystal Lake, IL


“I am very passionate about educating my clients about stress management skills, mindfulness, and the food-mood connection.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ellysia Price

Ellysia Price

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Chicago, IL


“I am a neurodivergent and queer therapist and social worker, and am passionate about using connection and authenticity to promote healing.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
LaDonna Miller

LaDonna Miller

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • South Holland, IL


“I would describe my style as warm and supportive, and I am ready to help you tackle your struggle head-on.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Grace Frantilla

Grace Frantilla

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Glenview, IL


I've devoted a decade of my career helping parents learn how to best help their children. And another decade helping adults in an out-patient partial hospitalization program. These are the moments when people have felt the most vulnerable and in need of something more than what they are already trying to manage their mental health. Hopefully, my experience and tools that I've gathered working across the age groups and in a more intense level of care can help you build your own toolbox.


LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 6 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
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  • 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.