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LGBT therapists in Downers Grove, IL

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

Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Downers Grove, IL

Downers Grove residents seeking LGBTQIA+-affirming therapy can access 790 providers through Headway's platform, offering talk therapy and medication management. With an average savings of 75% on sessions through insurance, you can prioritize your mental health without financial barriers.

Leah O'Brien

Leah O'Brien

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Ms. O'Brien is integrative in her treatment approach, often combining cognitive-behavioral, emotion-focused, and motivational interviewing approaches.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Maggie Adrian

Maggie Adrian

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I approach therapy in a collaborative and compassionate way, creating a safe space where clients can feel supported as they explore their inner world. I believe that each client is the expert of their own life, and my role is to guide, support, and provide tools to help you connect with your strengths and insights. My work is trauma-informed and integrates a variety of techniques, including internal family systems, somatic methods, inner child work, strengths-based narratives, CBT, experiential approaches, and clinical hypnosis.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Christopher Barsotti

Christopher Barsotti

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I also bring lived experience to my work, which helps me approach therapy with authenticity, empathy, and the understanding that healing looks different for everyone.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Inquisitive, Participatory
Accepts 5 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 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sophie Murphy

Sophie Murphy

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“As a woman of trans experience, I am deeply committed to offering an affirming, inclusive space where all identities, relationships, and ways of being are welcome.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
C. Eric Erlenbush

C. Eric Erlenbush

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I use practical, evidence-based tools to help reduce anxiety and stress through structured, collaborative work rather than talk alone.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Edward Pagella

Edward Pagella

Therapist

Virtual • Plainfield, IL


“I am a very motivating type of counselor who is solution focused. I am very open minded and affirming.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Annie Duranowski

Annie Duranowski

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I utilize a creative approach to therapy to support mental health recovery that feels safe and positive for you while embracing traditional modalities like CBT, DBT, ACT and expressive therapies.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Diabetes
Creative, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Dr. LeNedra Wallace-Fierte

Dr. LeNedra Wallace-Fierte

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Being easy to connect with, I'll create space to hear and validate your story, as well as join in with you on solutions to challenges that are impacting your journey.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Open-minded, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Hope Missey-Wodarczyk

Hope Missey-Wodarczyk

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I offer a welcoming, affirming, and inclusive space where clients of all identities and lived experiences feel seen, heard, and valued.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Holly Barczak

Holly Barczak

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


With more than 30 years of experience, I've helped individuals navigate anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and life's many transitions with compassion, understanding, and practical support.

I know reaching out for help isn't always easy. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered to move toward greater confidence, healing, and peace of mind.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Avi Levin

Avi Levin

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“It's within the potential space of the therapeutic experience that we can grow beyond our prior limitations.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 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 7 insurance carriers
Jalen Clemmons

Jalen Clemmons

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Grief or loss
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Enchelle Morris

Enchelle Morris

Therapist

Virtual • Midlothian, IL


“I am a person centered therapist who works to set the proper atmosphere to allow you to feel comfortable to be vulnerable.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jeanette Bledsoe

Jeanette Bledsoe

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I blend practical tools with deeper reflection so you can not only cope in the moment, but also better understand what is driving your thoughts, emotions, relationships, and patterns.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Caprice Stancil-Smith

Caprice Stancil-Smith

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I've been told, sessions with me are similar to having discussions or conversations. They're not "clinical".”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 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 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ember Casey

Ember Casey

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Reba Arora

Reba Arora

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


You deserve a therapist who knows the terrain. I’ve been where you are. I have experienced mental health from every angle—as someone who has done the deep personal work, as someone who has navigated the pain of losing loved ones to suicide, and now as a therapist. When I suggest a tool or a shift in perspective, it’s because I practice what I preach. I know the freedom that comes from setting boundaries and building a life you truly love, and I want that same transformation for you.

A perspective shaped by the world: Growing up with over 30 exchange students from around the globe taught me early on that everyone’s "normal" looks different. This curiosity follows me outside the office, too. This love for travel and culture keeps my mind open and my spirit curious—traits I bring into every session we share.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Alice Badger

Alice Badger

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Mount Vernon, IL


“I believe the most important role she is to listen, guide, and help clients create and achieve their own goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Markesha Woods

Markesha Woods

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe people change when they feel genuinely understood and have tools they can actually use — so I aim to be both a steady, nonjudgmental presence and a practical partner in the work.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
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
Nicole Floress

Nicole Floress

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I bring a warm, collaborative, and genuinely nonjudgmental presence — one where you can show up exactly as you are.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Open-minded, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Tiffany Payne

Tiffany Payne

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My goal is to help clients create meaningful, lasting change that extends beyond the therapy session.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Tori Dang

Tori Dang

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Kelly Alexander

Kelly Alexander

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe therapy should be a safe and supportive space where you feel heard, empowered and where growth should occur.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Challenging, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Kelly Ambrose

Kelly Ambrose

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hello, and thank you for taking the time to read about my professional background.

I graduated with my bachelor's in social work in 2013 from MacMurray College in Jacksonville IL.

I furthered my education at the University of Illinois Urbana/Champaign School of Social Work and graduated with my Masters in SW in 2017.

I have gained 13 years of experience with the majority of those years spent in psychiatric facilities for children and adults.

I specialize in motivational interviewing, DBT, CBT, and a multitude of other treatment styles.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Jaime Altman

Jaime Altman

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I am very laidback and am not the kind of therapist to ask, "And how does that make you feel?" I use real, everyday language along with humor...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tochi Okwueze

Tochi Okwueze

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“I guide individuals on their wellness path to mental and emotional well-being through a holistic, patient-centered approach.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
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 7 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 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shelia Ransom Jenkins

Shelia Ransom Jenkins

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hello, I’m Shelia Ransom Jenkins, MSW, LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience supporting adolescents, adults, couples, and families through life’s challenges. I offer a compassionate, trauma-informed, and client-centered approach to therapy, creating a safe space where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered.

I hold a Master of Social Work and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice, and my professional background includes work in community mental health, educational settings, and clinical leadership roles. I have experience helping clients manage anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship and family conflict, behavioral concerns, life transitions, and stress related to work, school, and personal growth. I also have specialized training in perinatal mental health, supporting individuals experiencing postpartum depression and related mood disorders.

My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma-informed care, and strengths-based interventions, tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals. I believe therapy is most effective when it is collaborative, practical, and rooted in trust.

Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, navigating a difficult transition, or seeking deeper self-understanding, my goal is to support you with empathy, clarity, and encouragement as you work toward healing and lasting change.

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

Nechola Hodge

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is supportive but direct, offering both empathy and honest feedback to help clients move forward.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Brandy Matthews

Brandy Matthews

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My approach is direct, supportive, and solution-oriented. I don't believe in just talking without direction- together, we focus on building practical strategies that help you manage emotions, improve coping, and feel more in control of your...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Nicole Caldwell

Nicole Caldwell

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My goal is to provide a supportive, judgment-free space where you can better understand yourself, develop practical coping skills, build confidence, and create meaningful, lasting change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Humorous, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
XaHara MeGod

XaHara MeGod

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is compassionate, collaborative, and focused on helping you feel safe, understood, and empowered throughout the process.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Creative, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Tanya White

Tanya White

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I work with teens, adults, and seniors (65+) in a supportive, judgement-free space where you can feel heard, build on your strengths, develop healthier coping skills, and move forward with greater confidence and balance.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Allyn Daly

Allyn Daly

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Clients can expect sessions to center on and affirm their lived experiences, needs, and empowerment of their identities, abilities, and bodies.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Zellessia Ejalonibu

Zellessia Ejalonibu

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I help young adults, adults, and athletes work through anxiety, depression, grief and loss, burnout, attachment and relationship challenges, and confidence or performance struggles so they can feel more grounded, confident, and connected in their lives. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of your next step, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Therapy can be a place to better understand yourself, build on your strengths, and create meaningful change.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

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

Number of therapists within 20 miles of Downers Grove, IL
There are over 35 therapists in Downers Grove, IL accepting new patients.
35+
Average years in practice
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9 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 100%Stress management
  • 94%Anxiety
  • 91%Depression
  • 89%Relationship issues
Insurances accepted
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  • 100%Aetna
  • 100%Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois
  • 97%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 89%Cigna
  • 74%Ascension
Languages spoken
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  • 97%English
  • 9%Spanish
  • 3%French
  • 3%German
  • 3%Polish
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 100%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 80%Woman
  • 20%Man
License types
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  • 46%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 43%Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
  • 3%Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
  • 3%Full Practice Authority Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
  • 3%Clinical Psychologist
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 60%Family therapy
  • 37%Couples therapy
  • 34%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

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