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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.

Orren Reeves

Orren Reeves

Therapist

Virtual • Chicago, IL


Hi, I’m Orren Reeves, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than a decade of experience supporting teens and adults through life’s challenges. I believe healing begins with feeling seen, heard, and understood. My approach is trauma-informed and strengths-based, creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore what you’re experiencing, build on your strengths, and develop practical tools to move forward with greater confidence and clarity. It would be an honor to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing, growth, and a life that feels more fulfilling and authentic to you.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Vanessa De Leon

Vanessa De Leon

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I bring a unique mix of energy, creativity, and empathy to my work, integrating mind, body, and spirit in the healing process.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Energetic
Accepts 15 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
John Henson

John Henson

Therapist

Virtual • Chicago, IL


“As a board certified psychotherapist, I have nearly 30 years of clinical experience treating adults with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and substance use disorders.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Grief or loss
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Michelle Cruz

Michelle Cruz

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I am a licensed clinical social worker with 28 years of experience partnering with adolescents, adults of all ages and families. I am bilingual so I offer therapy in english and spanish.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 14 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Alesha Jones-Johnson

Alesha Jones-Johnson

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is supportive, honest, and structured. I provide a safe space to talk, but I also help you build real-life skills — emotional regulation, communication, boundaries, and coping strategies you can actually use outside of sessions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Chad Carson

Chad Carson

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my goal is to create hope and help people to realize that together we can overcome whatever struggles they are facing. I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I have been a nurse for 27 years, and I strive to show compassion and understanding to everyone who needs help.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Fauzia Hoda

Fauzia Hoda

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“I am here to partner with my patients, and create a space where people feel heard where their culture and life experiences matter.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Eshana Watson-Gholar, Lcsw, Pmh-C

Eshana Watson-Gholar, Lcsw, Pmh-C

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My therapeutic style is grounded in empathy and empowering clients to explore their strengths and embrace personal growth.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Bashir Alli

Bashir Alli

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • St. Charles, IL


“I believe every patient is unique and deserves personalized care. I listen with an open heart and work closely with your individual needs.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 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
Sean Murphy

Sean Murphy

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“I specialize in populations, including Sexual and Gender Minorities/LGBTQIA+, emerging adults (18-29 years), creative professionals, and educators.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Creative, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Camelle Burlock, MS, Lcpc, Crc

Camelle Burlock, MS, Lcpc, Crc

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“In our first session, you can expect a warm, compassionate space where you are truly heard and respected.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Joan Paradis

Joan Paradis

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My approach is pretty collaborative—I see therapy as a team effort. I want you to feel heard and understood, but I'll also gently challenge you when it's helpful.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Analilia Morales-Mackay

Analilia Morales-Mackay

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Much of my work aims to understand the underlying concerns that are causing stressful situations and maladaptive behaviors.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Olalekan Fapohunda

Dr. Olalekan Fapohunda

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Mokena, IL


“My goal is to help you get back to your optimal mental health by bringing you back to a place where you can do your work, take care of things at home, or get along with other people without any difficulty.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Heather Shannon

Heather Shannon

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I use a combination of psychoeducation, mindfulness and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help clients make changes at the root level.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
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
Jill Sisler

Jill Sisler

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


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

Cherie Truax

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hi, I’m Cherie. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDR-trained therapist. I work with teens and adults who are feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. Maybe you're constantly on edge, overthinking everything, or finding it hard to slow down. Or maybe you’ve been feeling flat, unmotivated, or like you're just going through the motions. These experiences often trace back to things your nervous system picked up on — ways it learned to protect you in stressful or painful situations.

I help people work through painful memories, low self-esteem, and the weight of depression—like feeling numb, exhausted, stuck, or hard on yourself. We'll explore the parts of you carrying that pain and move at a pace that feels right, whether you're ready for deep healing or just need a safe place to land.

If you’re feeling ready—or just curious—I’d be honored to support you on your healing path.

Outside of therapy, I love curling up with a good book, finding design inspiration (I have a soft spot for cozy interiors), caring for my houseplants, and spending time with my dog, Magnolia Grace—who may occasionally drop in for a virtual session cameo.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Laura Lewis

Laura Lewis

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Everyone needs help sometimes, not because they are broken, but because life can become too heavy to sort through alone. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes every person should have access to support that helps them rise to new challenges, cope with loss, manage the ups and downs of mood, and better understand who they are. I work with adults navigating grief and loss, anxiety, depression, stress, mood changes, life transitions, relationship issues, PTSD, trauma and the feeling of being stuck or disconnected from themselves. My goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can feel supported while we make sense of what you are carrying and create a path toward living your best life.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 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. 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
Dr. Stephen Baker

Dr. Stephen Baker

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I generally work with adult populations and have over ten years of experience working with the following client concerns: Major depressive disorder, general anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, personality disorder concerns, stress management,...”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 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
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
Nicole M. Heller

Nicole M. Heller

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Therapy is not about fixing you—it's about helping you better understand yourself, strengthen your relationships, and create a life that feels more aligned with your goals!”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Creative, Holistic, Participatory
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

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.