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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 811 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.

Shannon Chien

Shannon Chien

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hi there! My name is Shannon, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist passionate about working with relational dynamics of all shapes and sizes. I am particularly invested in helping clients navigate differences in expectations of intimacy, responsibility, and accountability. While neurotypical, I have extensive experience making space for neurodivergent voices in and out of the therapy room. Born in the US and raised in Taiwan, I provide therapy services in both English and Mandarin.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Humorous
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Pascale Davis

Pascale Davis

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“As a survivor of Complex PTSD myself, I have a special understanding and passion about helping others heal with patience and grace.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Margaret Rigney

Margaret Rigney

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My approach to therapy is relational and insight-focused, which means we'll pay attention to patterns, relationships, and the deeper themes that shape your experiences.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 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
Tyler Leake

Tyler Leake

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that everyone has the power to rewrite their own story.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Janeil Ruiz

Dr. Janeil Ruiz

Psychologist

Virtual • Chicago, IL


“My goal is to provide an environment of acceptance, care, and collaboration where you feel supported in accessing your innate capacity to heal.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
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 14 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jevon Johnson

Jevon Johnson

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I bring an attitude of curiosity, gentleness, and humor to your therapy sessions and work to create a safe space where you can feel seen and heard.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 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
Maisha Lowery

Maisha Lowery

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“There are opportunities in ever new beginning! I believe therapy offers a meaningful chance to make informed choices and implement changes that can significantly enrich the quality of your life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Mistie Drews

Mistie Drews

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I also personally understand how difficult anxiety and life's challenges can feel, which helps me show up with empathy, honesty, and compassion.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Naji Al-Najjar

Naji Al-Najjar

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I use an integrated approach to see the person in front of me as an individual who has their own experiences, all of which help to answer the question, "What happened to you?" versus "What's wrong with you?"”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Energetic, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Tarik Brown

Tarik Brown

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I'm a friendly harm reduction therapist dedicated to a trauma-informed and client-centered approach.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 14 insurance carriers
Andrea Reed

Andrea Reed

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe people choose therapy because they want something in their life to change. Whatever the issue, change IS possible.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Musediq Ismail

Musediq Ismail

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is collaborative and patient-centered. I strive to meet people where they are, guide them with evidence-based interventions, and empower them to take an active role in their mental wellness.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
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
Carrie Estrada

Carrie Estrada

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is warm, collaborative, and trauma-informed, with a strong focus on safety, pacing, and trust.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Identity issues, PTSD
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Wytonya Byrd

Wytonya Byrd

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


Something feels off, and you cannot quite name it. Maybe anxiety is keeping you up at night. Or depression has made even simple things feel impossible. Or ADHD has been quietly driving your life for years. Whatever you are carrying, you deserve care that holds all of it. I'm Wytonya, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 20 years of experience, offering psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy in one relationship,

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Motunrayo Olooto

Motunrayo Olooto

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe effective care starts with creating a safe, judgment-free environment where you can openly share your experiences, concerns, and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Thomas Kaufman

Thomas Kaufman

Therapist

Virtual • Rockford, IL


“I help empower clients to explore areas within their lives that present challenges and inhibit change, and assist them with finding solutions that will work for them.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Janet Dowell

Janet Dowell

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I utilize a client centered approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution-focused and psychodynamic techniques while also incorporating creativity including art, writing, and play to express feelings that are not always easy to...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Affirming, Creative, Solution-oriented
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
E.T. Townsend

E.T. Townsend

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I offer support and skills to those exploring identity, intimacy, or relational complexity—whether in gender, sexuality, kink, or deocolonized relationships. They may be sitting with grief, unraveling the impact of trauma, or feeling the weight of past experiences in their body. They long for connection but struggle with vulnerability, trust, or belonging. Some feel stuck in cycles of overwhelm, while others are questioning the stories they’ve been told about who they are. They seek a space where they can be seen without judgment, process their experiences, and make sense of the systems shaping their lives.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Krystal Fowler

Krystal Fowler

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Are you the person everyone depends on, but lately you're feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or like you're carrying too much? You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, burnout, grief, trauma, workplace stress, relationship concerns, or a major life change and know something needs to change, even if you're not sure where to start. That's where I can help.

I work with children, adolescents and adults and provide both ongoing therapy and short-term, solution-focused support. My goal is to create a space where you can talk openly, feel heard, understand what's getting in the way, and develop practical strategies you can actually use in everyday life.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 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
Barbara Duran

Barbara Duran

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


When stress starts to build, it can affect more than just your day-to-day life. It can impact your mood, your energy, and your relationships. I work with adults and couples who are navigating anxiety, depression, workplace stress, and burnout. Many of my clients are used to juggling responsibilities, caring for others, and pushing through difficult seasons until they realize they're no longer feeling like themselves. You might feel constantly overwhelmed, mentally exhausted, or like you can’t fully “turn off” your mind. At the same time, stress can begin to show up in your relationships through miscommunication, distance, or frustration, making it harder to feel connected and supported.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jessica Surges

Jessica Surges

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I rely heavily on mindfulness & solution-focused CBT modalities to help my clients overcome obstacles and manage everyday life stress.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Joetta Little

Dr. Joetta Little

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Chicago, IL


Healing the mind starts with being truly heard. I’m Dr. Joetta Little, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who helps adults navigate a wide range of mental health challenges—from anxiety, depression, and trauma to mood, thought, and personality disorders. My approach combines evidence-based treatment with empathy and collaboration, creating a safe space where every story matters. Whether you’re seeking stability, clarity, or peace, we’ll work together to uncover what wellness looks like for you.✨ Your healing starts here—with care that sees the whole person, not just the diagnosis.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Dr. Todd Tedrow

Dr. Todd Tedrow

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I specialize in helping clients who feel disconnected—socially, emotionally, or in their relationships—develop greater insight, clarity, and confidence.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 11 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
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
Joseph Melendez

Joseph Melendez

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Joseph is a holistic and integrative therapist and his core principles are compassion, collaboration, and transparency.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Direct, Humorous
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Justin Gravely-Strayhorn

Dr. Justin Gravely-Strayhorn

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


A lot of men arrive in therapy through anger, because it is often the only feeling they were ever given permission to have. If that is you, or if the anxiety has been running underneath everything for years, or if something happened to you that you have never said out loud, you are in the right place. I'm Dr. Justin D. Gravely-Strayhorn, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my Master of Social Work from Campbellsville University and my Doctor of Education from Liberty University. I work with adults on anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, relationships, and the particular weight men carry when they have been taught that handling it alone is the same thing as being strong. Culture is part of that conversation, not separate from it. What shaped you, what was expected of you, and what it costs to keep performing being fine all belong in the room. My approach combines evidence-based therapy with compassion, cultural awareness, and a holistic view of wellness. I believe growth happens when we feel seen, supported, and empowered to rewrite our stories.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 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
Direct, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
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
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
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
Mykel Wolfe

Mykel Wolfe

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Do you feel stuck? Like nothing will ever get better? People tell you to just get over it? It's okay to ask for help and you don't have to figure it out alone. I come from a culture that

promotes courage, creativity, and communication, and I bring those values into every session.

I work with adults navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, depression, ADHD, and trauma, drawing on your strengths while addressing what's holding you back. 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 12 insurance carriers
Karyn Flores

Karyn Flores

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“I ask a lot of questions before I suggest something new because I want to understand what has worked and what matters most to you.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Maternal mental health, PTSD
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Tomario Stamps

Tomario Stamps

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Great to meet you! I’m Mario (or Tomario), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families through life's toughest challenges. Whether you're navigating career stress, relationship difficulties, family conflicts, depression, or substance use, my goal is to serve as a supportive catalyst for positive change in your life.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 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 6 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 33 therapists in Downers Grove, IL accepting new patients.
33+
Average years in practice
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10 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 100%Stress management
  • 94%Anxiety
  • 94%Depression
  • 91%Relationship issues
Insurances accepted
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  • 100%Aetna
  • 100%Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois
  • 100%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 97%Cigna
  • 88%Ascension
Languages spoken
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  • 97%English
  • 15%Spanish
  • 6%French
  • 6%German
  • 6%Polish
How they see their clients
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  • 97%In-person or online
  • 3%In-person only
Provider gender
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  • 85%Woman
  • 15%Man
License types
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  • 55%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 36%Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
  • 6%Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
  • 3%Clinical Psychologist
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 58%Family therapy
  • 36%Child or adolescent therapy
  • 33%Couples 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.

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