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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 746 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.

Amy Ballard

Amy Ballard

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style as a therapist is warm, direct, and down-to-earth. Therapy with me isn't just about talking things through—it's also about paying to physical responses to stress and pain so that you can heal and become more resilient.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Claudia Johnson

Claudia Johnson

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I enjoy getting to work with people to process through those parts of ourselves we hide or shame with acceptance, kindness, and curiosity.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Carla Morris

Carla Morris

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I really believe that the connection, the therapeutic relationship is so important in establishing a safe place to explore, unpack and heal wounds...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Lauren Appelson

Lauren Appelson

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I have a particular interest treating OCD and Complex anxiety as well as significant experience using Expressive Arts Therapy in my services.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, Family issues
Creative, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jada Choate

Jada Choate

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hi, I’m Jada. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing virtual therapy for adults across Illinois and Maine.

Many of the people I work with appear high functioning on the outside, while internally feeling anxious, overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward. You might be navigating a life transition, relationship stress, identity questions, or a sense that something feels off even if it is hard to fully put into words.

I offer a space where you do not need to have everything figured out before you show up. We can slow things down together, make sense of what you are carrying, and begin to move toward something that feels more aligned.

I am especially drawn to working with clients around anxiety, identity, relationships, self trust, and life transitions, especially seasons that feel meaningful, uncertain, or hard to name. Much of my work lives in that space.

Outside of therapy, I spend time with my partner and our dog, Autumn, who brings joy, playfulness, and energy into my day and is a constant reminder not to take life too seriously.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Eating disorders, Family issues, Identity issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 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
William Acton

William Acton

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Springfield, IL


“I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with Anxiety and Depression using an eclectic approach.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Bridgette Spann-Edwards

Dr. Bridgette Spann-Edwards

Therapist

Virtual • Chicago, IL


For more than 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside individuals, couples, and families as they work toward healing, growth, and change. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor, and Substance Abuse Professional, I bring both deep clinical knowledge and a compassionate, down-to-earth approach to therapy.

I specialize in helping clients navigate life’s most personal challenges—including relationship and intimacy concerns, life transitions, grief and loss, trauma, and mental health struggles. I also provide substance abuse treatment, DOT/SAP evaluations, and recovery support using evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Reality Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, the Duluth Model, and the Matrix Model.

I have a special commitment to serving Black communities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people living with HIV, re-entry populations, sex workers, and youth facing challenges. I understand how personal, cultural, and systemic factors shape each person’s story, and I create a safe, affirming space where clients feel truly seen and heard.

In our sessions, you can expect a respectful, judgment-free environment where your voice matters. I believe therapy works best as a partnership—we’ll set goals together, explore what’s holding you back, and develop practical strategies you can use in daily life a more fulfilling life. Whether you’re seeking support for a specific issue or simply want to invest in your personal growth, I’m here to help you take that next step.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 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
Marcos Erazo

Marcos Erazo

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My goal is always to empower my clients to create safe space, balance, time, and strength to process and embrace their needs.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Nicola Roache Ashley

Dr. Nicola Roache Ashley

Psychologist

Virtual • Illinois


“I have specialty training in dialectical behavior therapy to teach patient skills to cope with stress, regulate emotions, and improve relationships with others.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Sara Khaledpour

Sara Khaledpour

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My clients describe me as a compassionate, good communication skills, encouraging and cultural competence.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Jeanette Perez

Jeanette Perez

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I have over 20 years of experience counseling individuals, couples, and groups. I am bilingual and embrace Spanish as my native language.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Dr. Brett Opelt

Dr. Brett Opelt

Psychologist

Virtual • Illinois


Dr. Opelt earned his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at New Mexico State University after completing his Master’s of Science in Educational Psychology: Community Counseling from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. During his graduate training, he earned certifications in Trauma Counseling and Multicultural Knowledge Basis in Mental Health Practices, and a graduate minor in Integrated Behavioral Health. Dr. Opelt has completed postdoctoral fellowships in research in Rehabilitation Psychology, with an emphasis on Multiple Sclerosis, at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, and in clinical Rehabilitation and Pain Psychology at MedStar Health National Rehabilitation Hospital. He has focused his clinical work on adults who have concerns about insomnia, cognitive impairment, addiction, LGBT+ concerns, caregiver support, transplants, burn survivors, cancer, musculoskeletal diseases like MS and Parkinson’s disease, and those who have amputations. He is a licensed psychologist in Maryland and Illinois.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Kendra Moultrie-Belk

Kendra Moultrie-Belk

Therapist

Virtual • Peoria, IL


Welcome!

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

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

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Creative, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Julianne Clifton-Marquez

Julianne Clifton-Marquez

Therapist

Virtual • Chicago, IL


“I truly believe that we all have the ability to break patterns, confront the things which are hurting us, and to live our lives with more grace, happiness, and ease.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Creative, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Luis Diaz

Luis Diaz

Therapist

Virtual • Chicago, IL


“When we work together, you'll find a warm, friendly space where we explore life's challenges with clarity and resilience.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Carla Pate-Dohrman

Carla Pate-Dohrman

Therapist

Virtual • St. Charles, IL


“I enjoy working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, relationship issues, emotion expression, and other life challenges.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dominique Rodriguez

Dominique Rodriguez

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I'm a no bullshit human and therapist - to have access to my energy, I ask for you to be real, direct, no fluff, no bullshit.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Identity issues
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Darcell Rasmussen

Darcell Rasmussen

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Darcell Rasmussen is client-focused, committed, detail-oriented, and experienced in serving populations from various cultural, educational, and socioeconomic backgrounds.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Clayton Harrison

Clayton Harrison

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) with years of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. My background includes working in schools, military communities, and private practice settings, which has given me a deep understanding of the unique challenges people face in different life stages and environments. I am passionate about creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel supported, respected, and empowered to grow.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Creative, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
John Michael Quinn

John Michael Quinn

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is warm, direct, and collaborative—I focus on helping you understand what's keeping you stuck and building the tools to move forward.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Sarah Wickenhauser

Sarah Wickenhauser

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“Patients often tell me they feel genuinely heard in our sessions. They describe me as a strong listener, informative, nonjudgmental...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
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
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 8 insurance carriers
Victoria Fombelle

Victoria Fombelle

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My primary population focus is LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse clients, and as a queer person myself, I believe creating a safe, affirming space is key to successful counseling.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Alana Friedlander

Dr. Alana Friedlander

Psychologist

Virtual • Chicago, IL


“At the core of my work is a deep belief that bodies are not problems to be fixed, they are systems to be understood.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Diane Mcclain

Diane Mcclain

Therapist

Virtual • Chicago, IL


“I am a direct communicator, but use humor often to help clarify issues and to create an intervention that is easy to remember and implement for my clients.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jenny Maguire

Jenny Maguire

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • O'Fallon, IL


Hi there, Jenny here! I believe therapy is about learning how to bend without breaking. I specialize in working with individuals and couples facing trauma, chronic stress, and high-demand roles like military, first responder, high level executives AND those that care for them. These are the people that are usually holding it all together for others!

I have a special connection to these populations as an Air Force brat, Air Force Veteran, and Air Force Spouse - quite literally not a day of my life untouched by the military! I have more than 20 years' experience working with children, youth, families and couples around their life challenges and transitions.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Maternal mental health
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Lyndsey Masters

Lyndsey Masters

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I provide an affirming, non-judgmental space specializing in trauma, kink, non-monogamy, neurodivergence, and queer issues.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Anthony Wright

Anthony Wright

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I work with adolescents, men, and families who are navigating emotional stress, behavioral challenges, relationship dynamics, and major life transitions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Kelly Strick

Kelly Strick

Therapist

Virtual • Yorkville, IL


I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist working since 2017 in community mental health and private practice. I have a masters degree specializing in couples and family therapy. I work to offer a space where clients can be seen and heard.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Rachel Kalina

Rachel Kalina

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Clients often describe me as approachable, practical, and easy to talk to. Therapy should be a collaborative process, and I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable being yourself without fear of judgment. My style balances support with practical problem-solving, helping clients gain insight while also developing strategies they can use in everyday life. Above all, I want you to feel heard, understood, and supported as we work toward your goals together.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Iva Andonovska

Iva Andonovska

Therapist

Virtual • Westmont, IL


“In our sessions, we will work collaboratively on identifying and removing barriers to healing and healthy habit formation.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Derek Hefner

Derek Hefner

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My practice focuses on getting to the root of symptoms and helping bring out your strengths and maximize your supports.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Inquisitive
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Justin Kozak

Justin Kozak

Therapist

Virtual • Chicago Heights, IL


“I use the partnership approach to therapy. You bring your life experiences and I bring my knowledge psychology and we work together to get you where you want go.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
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 5 insurance carriers
Rachel Weaver-Rivera

Rachel Weaver-Rivera

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I engage my clients with a strengths-based perspective. I specialize in helping individuals facing difficult decisions, stress, family concerns, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Creative, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Robert Testen

Robert Testen

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I use supportive and sometimes challenging feedback along with humor when appropriate, to help gain insights and new perspectives into difficult roles and relationships.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Macy Ferguson-Smith

Macy Ferguson-Smith

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


My name is Macy (she/they) and I believe that therapy is for everyone, at any time, regardless of stressors in our environment. I received my MSW from St. Louis University '17 and my Doctor of Education from Western Illinois University '25. I look forward to working with anyone who is seeking to better themselves, understand their way of thinking, and how to navigate the stress in their lives.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

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.