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LGBT therapists in Evanston, IL

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

Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Evanston, IL

Evanston's LGBTQIA community deserves compassionate, culturally competent care. Headway offers flexible in-person and virtual therapy options with providers experienced in gender and sexual identity concerns, helping you access the support that fits your life and budget.

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
Tessa Derecho

Tessa Derecho

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“She believes healing doesn't always have to be heavy, and that laughter can be part of the therapeutic journey too.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Kyle Brand Padilla

Kyle Brand Padilla

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I honor all social work values: service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, human relationships, integrity, and competence.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 15 insurance carriers
Cristina Alba

Cristina Alba

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I understand the profound impact that trauma can have on individuals and families, and I am dedicated to creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can heal, grow, and thrive.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Libby Johnson

Libby Johnson

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I am a queer, neurodivergent art therapist. I graduated from the School of the Art Institute with a Masters in Art Therapy and Counseling in 2020 and recently acquired LCPC licensure. I have a background working with diverse populations, including experience in both inpatient and outpatient facilities focused on adults with a range of mental health disorders/multiple diagnoses, education spaces with adolescents, and public art-making spaces focused on community wellness.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Creative, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Pamela Bowers

Pamela Bowers

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hi, I’m Pamela — a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for supporting young and older adults, women, and families as they navigate life’s transitions, challenges, and opportunities for growth.

I come from an urban community and understand the importance of feeling seen, supported, and understood — especially when you’re working to create a better future for yourself and your family. That perspective is at the heart of my work. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can show up as your full self. Whether you’re facing anxiety, relationship challenges, identity concerns, or self-esteem struggles, I’ll Walk beside you as you find clarity and confidence.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Jennifer Murphy

Jennifer Murphy

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I strive to create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable being themselves and working toward meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Nell Langner

Nell Langner

Therapist

Virtual • McHenry, IL


Hi, I'm Nell! I help my clients to address and strengthen their mental, physical, emotional, and social needs that exhibit in the form of anxiety, depression, trauma, challenging life transitions, low self-esteem, inner child wounds, and relationship with self and others. While I have the knowledge, skills, and experience to serve clients with various mental health concerns, I specialize in addressing issues in relationships and helping adults struggling with patterns of toxic relationships.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Melissa Chiasson

Dr. Melissa Chiasson

Psychologist

Virtual • Illinois


“I have worked in a variety of settings with diverse clientele; I treat adults ages 21+ presenting with a wide range of issues...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Danielle Alexander

Danielle Alexander

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I work with young adults and BIPOC individuals who feel overwhelmed, disconnected or stuck in cycles they can't explain.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Susan Pagels

Susan Pagels

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My goal is to provide a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
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
Cyriaque Tetchi

Cyriaque Tetchi

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Naperville, IL


My practice centers on helping people work through depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorder with care that actually fits their life. I've been in independent practice for about two years, and in that time I've found that the providers people stay with are the ones who listen well and adjust as things change. I'm a PMHNP with full practice authority, so I can manage medications and provide psychiatric services without a collaborating physician. I see clients via telehealth throughout Illinois, with flexible scheduling available Monday through Saturday. If you've been waiting to find someone who's approachable and genuinely wants to get you moving in the right direction, I'd like to be that person.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Dr. Stacee Reicherzer

Dr. Stacee Reicherzer

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hi there—I'm Dr. Stacee Reicherzer (she/her), a transgender therapist specializing in trauma, anxiety, OCD, and identity development for LGBTQ+ adults and the people who love us.

Many of my clients are navigating painful histories that show up as intrusive thoughts, panic, compulsive behaviors, or emotional numbness. Some are struggling with obsessive fears and mental rituals that make daily life feel exhausting. Whether you're dealing with trauma-based anxiety, obsessive-compulsive cycles, or a mix of both, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate this alone.

My approach is warm, affirming, and trauma-informed. I integrate EMDR with ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) and other evidence-based strategies to support clients dealing with OCD, complex PTSD, and chronic shame. Sessions are collaborative and attuned—you’ll never feel rushed or reduced to a diagnosis.

I specialize in working with queer and trans adults, survivors of complex trauma (including medical trauma), and individuals navigating anxiety tied to identity, safety, and belonging. My work with OCD includes contamination fears, intrusive harm or sexual thoughts, religious scrupulosity, and perfectionism—often themes deeply rooted in early experiences of fear or control.

I hold a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, am EMDR-Certified, and have served the LGBTQ+ community for over two decades. I'm licensed in both Texas and Illinois and offer virtual sessions to clients across both states. If you're ready for real healing—not just coping—I’d be honored to support your journey.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Identity issues, OCD, Panic disorders
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Amber Drake

Amber Drake

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I love to empower my clients to move towards the things, passions and people that are meaningful in their life.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, PTSD
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Zaraar Zahid

Zaraar Zahid

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My goal is to create a warm, non-judgmental space where we can better understand what's been getting in the way, build on your strengths, and work toward meaningful, lasting change together.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Inquisitive
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Shaun Fossett

Shaun Fossett

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Rather than a one-size-fits-all model, he takes the approach of adapting to the unique needs of each person he works with while collaborating with them to achieve their goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Kenzie Dodds

Kenzie Dodds

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My formalized specialty from my education is working with individuals who have a chronic physical, cognitive, or developmental disability.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Creative, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
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
Rex Mccully

Rex Mccully

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I have been a licensed clinical social worker for over 30 years bringing broad experience and perspective to my sessions. I believe that joining with a client is paramount to establishing trust. Trusting that your provider cares for you, has your best interest at heart and provides you with reasonable and doable solutions is key to growth. If we don’t connect, no harm/no foul. We agree to move on and I will assist with that process, if necessary.

LGBTQIA+, Bipolar disorder, Depression, End of life care, Family issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jataun Rollins

Jataun Rollins

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I am culturally centered respecting the lived experiences of people and operate as if anyone I encounter has experienced trauma.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Creative, Holistic
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Aleska Hagan

Dr. Aleska Hagan

Psychologist

Virtual • Illinois


I'm a licensed psychologist and consider myself a generalist with a wide variety of clinical interests including issues related to family of origin, self esteem, identity development, depression, anxiety, stress, and interpersonal relationships.

Attending to mental health can have such a profound effect on quality of life and ability to function! Yet, it can seem so vulnerable and scary to make that first appointment, even if we know it will help. Great job leaning into that discomfort, prioritizing your needs, and pushing toward growth!

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Brocelyn Crowley

Brocelyn Crowley

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I try to meet each individual where they are at and one of my main approaches is Problem Intervention Evaluation (PIE).”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
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
James Brower

James Brower

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I create a space that feels warm, relaxed, and real. Clients often tell me they feel comfortable opening up with me.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 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
LeeShawn Brown

LeeShawn Brown

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I focus on developing a collaborative relationship with my client where they can feel empowered to actively participate in their therapeutic progress...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Tana Massaro

Tana Massaro

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I am a social worker experienced providing supportive counseling with school aged students, adults and the elderly. I am a compassionate listener whose goal is to help you get through difficult situations. I am easy to talk to and have a strong professional work ethic.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Gabriela Miniscalco

Dr. Gabriela Miniscalco

Psychologist

Virtual • Illinois


“I am a first-generation immigrant and like supporting others in reflecting on their multicultural identities.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Andrea Landsman

Andrea Landsman

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My goal is to create a space where you can explore what's on your mind without pressure or pretense...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 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
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 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Elaine Jones

Elaine Jones

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My approach is warm, empowering, and direct. I believe therapy should be a collaborative process where you feel supported...”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Kyla Donovan

Kyla Donovan

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe in taking a holistic mind/body/spirit approach when it comes to treating mental health and focus on creating greater harmony between these aspects of an individual's life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Ryan Sheehan

Ryan Sheehan

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Ryan specializes in working with individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, or on a journey to discover their strengths and abilities.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 15 insurance carriers
Brittany Fromm

Brittany Fromm

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I offer a supportive, collaborative therapeutic space where clients can explore concerns, gain insight, and develop practical coping strategies.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
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
Tolaya Geredine

Tolaya Geredine

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I approach therapy from the lens of learning where you learned the things about the world, people, and yourself, that are no longer serving you...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Molly Thinnes

Molly Thinnes

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I utilize a combination of therapies including CBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness training and breath work.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

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

Number of therapists within 20 miles of Evanston, IL
There are over 40 therapists in Evanston, IL accepting new patients.
40+
Average years in practice
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9 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Stress management
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 93%Depression
  • 90%Relationship issues
Insurances accepted
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  • 100%Aetna
  • 95%Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois
  • 85%Cigna
  • 83%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 65%Oxford
Languages spoken
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  • 100%English
  • 8%Spanish
  • 3%French
  • 3%German
  • 3%Gujarati
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 100%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 63%Woman
  • 33%Man
  • 5%Non-binary
License types
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  • 50%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 38%Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
  • 5%Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
  • 5%Full Practice Authority Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
  • 3%Clinical Psychologist
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 40%Family therapy
  • 33%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.

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