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LGBT therapists in Chicago, IL

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

Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Chicago, IL

Finding an affirming therapist in Chicago is easier with Headway's extensive network of 836 providers experienced in supporting LGBTQIA+ mental health. Sessions are available virtually or in-person, and many plans are covered by insurance with copays as low as $0.

Karina Meza

Karina Meza

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I'm a licensed counselor trained in trauma-informed and culturally responsive care, supporting clients from Black, Brown, and diverse communities navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Holistic, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kevin McClure

Kevin McClure

Therapist

Virtual • Peoria, IL


“My approach to therapy is collaborative, client-centered, and growth-oriented. I believe therapy works best when it feels like a partnership.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Aubrey Koel

Aubrey Koel

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is relaxed, warm, and refreshingly candid. We'll use a mix of humor, honest feedback, and genuine connection to cut through the noise and get to the heart of what's holding you back.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Angela Jalloh

Angela Jalloh

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe in seeing the person behind the diagnosis and walking alongside you toward healing and growth.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Megan O'Rourke

Megan O'Rourke

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I approach work with my clients from a trauma informed lens with consideration of how past experiences impact thoughts, feelings, relationships, and the body.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Jacqueline Kircher

Jacqueline Kircher

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My personality is best described as, "golden-retriever-who-will-also-hold-you-accountable". I'm excited to learn all about you, AND I'll gently challenge the stories you tell yourself...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Aaron Vanman

Aaron Vanman

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


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.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Shannon Cagle

Shannon Cagle

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I'm a trauma-focused therapist and former correctional officer, which means I understand high‐stress, high‐stakes environments...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Latonya Robinson

Latonya Robinson

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Oak Park, IL


“I approach care with curiosity, structure, and honesty. Rather than forcing people into a one-size-fits-all plan...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Participatory
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Alyssa Cline Spencer

Alyssa Cline Spencer

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Before I became a therapist, I was a foster care caseworker for 7 years and worked with so many families on repairing family dynamics...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Joshua Andre

Joshua Andre

Therapist

Virtual • Chicago, IL


As a licensed clinical social worker, I work with adolescents and young adults to find meaning and purpose while working through the mental barriers that have created challenges in their lives. I specialize in working with adolescents, addictions, men's issues, depression and anxiety.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jessica Ngiam

Jessica Ngiam

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Effective therapy involves more than symptom relief; it requires addressing the underlying causes of your suffering or unhappiness in order to create meaningful, lasting change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Phillip Davis

Phillip Davis

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD and addiction, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help my clients make...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Monday Ogbeibor

Monday Ogbeibor

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“Current clients describe me as a great listener, and I love to give ample time to truly hear what you've been feeling so we can come up with the right plan of action.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Kevin Nielsen

Kevin Nielsen

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My approach is somatic and process-oriented, integrating EMDR with a focus on awareness of the body and nervous system.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Courtney Boddie

Dr. Courtney Boddie

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I specialize in helping clients to noce these symptoms as solutions, to beter self-regulate, and to upgrade those expired patterns-in-living.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Creative, Inquisitive
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Kristin Elatkin

Kristin Elatkin

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“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 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michelle Ahmed

Michelle Ahmed

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I am a Bangladeshi American Woman, a daughter of immigrants, older sister, cat-mom, an artist, a singer, a registered yoga teacher, a writer, an activist, and a trauma psychotherapist who inspires healing through the arts.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Creative, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Risa Stutz

Risa Stutz

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My approach is collaborative, warm, and practical—I tailor each session to the person in front of me rather than forcing anyone into a single method.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Annmarie OConnell

Annmarie OConnell

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I’m Annmarie O’Connell, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals through some of life’s toughest moments. My background is rooted in community mental health, where I’ve worked with people from all walks of life dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life transitions.

I’m also trained in Brainspotting, a powerful therapeutic technique that taps into the brain-body connection to help clients process and release deeply held emotional pain. This approach, along with my real-world experience, allows me to support clients in a holistic, meaningful way. My work is deeply personal to me—because I’ve experienced firsthand how life-changing therapy can be.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Empowering
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Kirsten Doan

Kirsten Doan

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Therapy in this space isn't about fixing yourself—it's about understanding your experiences and reconnecting with your strengths.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Hannah Courtney

Hannah Courtney

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I have experienced firsthand that the brain can rewire, healing is possible, and the transformative work of therapy is the most life-changing and important thing you'll ever do for yourself.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Jamie Dunlap

Jamie Dunlap

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hi, and welcome! I’m Jamie, and I’m really glad you’ve taken this step to prioritize yourself. The next, and most important part, is finding a therapist who feels like the right fit for you.

I am experienced and educated in multiple approaches of therapy, integrating the mind and body to address insecurities with emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. My approach is informed by your unique personality, history, values, and goals to weave together a treatment map that feels meaningful and relevant.

As a therapist who has overcome personal trauma and hurdles to becoming a more secure and healthy person, I know what it’s like to be on the other side. I offer a completely nonjudgmental, non-pressured, but structured approach.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Tosheta Brown-Greenfield

Tosheta Brown-Greenfield

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Calumet City, IL


“I am passionate about helping people take control of their mental health and achieve wellness in a supportive, compassionate environment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Brandi Rhoads

Brandi Rhoads

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“Healthcare is more than treating acute and chronic conditions. We will treat the whole person—mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Kaleigh Clarke

Kaleigh Clarke

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Having served clients in Florida for the past 8 years in my work as a clinician and in welfare, my professional and personal philosophy is to meet people where they are. Therapy is a vulnerable journey of healing. I will utilize individualized care and collaboration to make you feel accepted, safe and ready to become the best version of yourself.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Stacey Davis

Stacey Davis

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe in patient-led care. As your provider, I am here to listen and to answer any questions that you may have.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 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
Amanda Berenguel Smolka

Amanda Berenguel Smolka

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I am an empathic listener with a calming presence. I love getting to know you, the you that is deep inside that hardly anyone else gets to see.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Aaliyah Caulton

Dr. Aaliyah Caulton

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe healing happens in a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Direct, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Kemisola Ebietomiye

Dr. Kemisola Ebietomiye

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“I am receptive, holistic, and solution-oriented. My goal is for patients to leave their session feeling understood, with their concerns addressed, and a clear treatment plan in mind.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Miroslava Pradella

Miroslava Pradella

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I am a caring and compassionate person who is here to support you in a safe and nonjudgmental space.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Myah Knight

Myah Knight

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I am a Certified Anxiety Informed Professional and trained in Exposure & Response Prevention & Acceptance Commitment therapies for Treatment of GAD, Panic Disorder, OCD, Social Anxiety, & Phobias.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Infertility, OCD, Panic disorders
Affirming, Direct, Empowering
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Akila Sachdev

Akila Sachdev

Therapist

Virtual • Naperville, IL


“I typically use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Holistic therapy, and Somatic therapy to help my clients make progress and find strategies to make them feel empowered.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Alyson LoVerde

Alyson LoVerde

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I understand what it's like to feel overwhelmed, stuck, or constantly on edge. Maybe you're emotionally drained, unmotivated, overthinking everything, or simply not feeling like yourself anymore. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, family conflict, divorce, co-parenting, work stress, grief, low self-esteem, and major life changes. I also specialize in supporting individuals who have experienced unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, emotional abuse, or narcissistic abuse. My goal is to provide a warm, down-to-earth, nonjudgmental, and safe space where you can feel understood, supported, and comfortable being yourself. You're not stuck. Healing is possible, and you do not have to go through it alone. When you're ready to take the next step, I'd be honored to support you on your journey.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Francois Jolie

Francois Jolie

Therapist

Virtual • Chicago, IL


“I help those who have not been successful with therapy in the past... those who have experienced trauma, those who self-medicate their trauma...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 14 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Meghan Murray

Dr. Meghan Murray

Psychologist

Virtual • Illinois


“I want every person to feel empowered in the therapeutic process as they move toward healing, change, and personal growth.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ana Bulnes

Ana Bulnes

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I specialize in working with autistic and ADHD adults, parents of neurodivergent children, and highly sensitive or creative professionals who often feel misunderstood or overwhelmed.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Holistic, Inquisitive
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Carllie Meeks

Carllie Meeks

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hi, I’m Carllie Meeks, a licensed therapist specializing in eating disorders, body image, and identity work. I hold a Masters degree from Loyola University Chicago and have extensive experience supporting adults in their recovery through a culturally responsive and trauma-informed lens. My approach integrates evidence-based therapies with compassion and curiosity, helping clients reconnect with their bodies and sense of self. I’m especially passionate about creating affirming spaces for BIPOC individuals navigating healing and self-acceptance

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Laura Thomas-Marlow

Laura Thomas-Marlow

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“As a therapist, I am passionate about using evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and EMDR...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 14 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists located within 20 miles of Chicago, IL

Number of therapists within 20 miles of Chicago, IL
There are over 43 therapists in Chicago, IL accepting new patients.
43+
Average years in practice
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11 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Stress management
  • 95%Anxiety
  • 95%Depression
  • 93%Relationship issues
Insurances accepted
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  • 100%Aetna
  • 95%Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois
  • 88%Cigna
  • 81%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 67%Ascension
Languages spoken
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  • 100%English
  • 12%Spanish
  • 7%Polish
  • 5%French
  • 5%German
How they see their clients
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  • 98%In-person or online
  • 2%In-person only
Provider gender
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  • 70%Woman
  • 28%Man
  • 2%Non-binary
License types
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  • 47%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 40%Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
  • 7%Clinical Psychologist
  • 5%Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
  • 2%Full Practice Authority Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 42%Family therapy
  • 37%Couples therapy
  • 23%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 an LGBTQIA Therapist in Chicago

Searching for LGBTQIA+ therapists in Chicago starts with finding identity-affirming care. A good fit may include experience with affirmative therapy, gender-diverse care, WPATH-informed training, or support for LGBTQIA+ relationships and family systems. You may also want a therapist who supports concerns such as anxiety, depression, identity exploration, trauma, relationship stress, or life transitions. As you compare profiles, look for listed specialties, training, and language that shows direct experience with LGBTQIA+ people, not just general mental health care.

Chicago has many therapists across neighborhoods like the Loop, Lakeview, Andersonville, Logan Square, and Hyde Park, which can make the search broad rather than simple. In-person sessions may work well if you want an office near transit, work, or home. Virtual appointments can also expand your options, especially when you want a therapist with specific LGBTQIA+ experience, a shared background, or scheduling flexibility. Before booking, read each bio for details on approach, communication style, availability, and whether a free phone consultation is offered.

Therapy in Chicago can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and understand what you may pay before care begins. Headway helps you compare therapists who are accepting new patients, review detailed profiles, verify insurance, and see estimated out-of-pocket costs before booking. You can browse LGBTQIA+ therapists in Chicago, filter by what matters to you, and book directly when you’re ready.

Find a provider - your way

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