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LGBT therapists in Oak Park, IL

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Oak Park, IL

Headway connects LGBTQIA individuals in Oak Park with 839 licensed mental health providers who offer affirming, open-minded care. Access talk therapy and medication management virtually or in-person, with sessions as affordable as $0 through insurance coverage. Find your right fit with providers experienced in supporting gender and sexual identity.

Sherry Dockins

Sherry Dockins

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Welcome! Join me on a journey to reclaim your sense of self, direction and empowerment. As a person who has struggled with life's hardships, I am compeled to help others in these difficult times. My credentials include; Licensed Professional Counselor (LCPC), Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CADC) and an Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Professional (ICDVP).

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Leslie Wenning

Leslie Wenning

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My approach is grounded in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which focuses on balancing acceptance and change while building practical skills for managing emotions, relationships, and stress.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Creative, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Grant Tyler

Grant Tyler

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to compassionate, thoughtful, and evidence-based mental health care. With more than a decade of experience in psychiatry, emergency medicine, trauma, and clinical leadership, I bring a broad skill set to my work, but human connection remains at the center of my approach.

I believe every person deserves to feel heard and supported. I help individuals navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and other mental health challenges with clarity and compassion. I take time to understand your story, collaborate on your goals, and create a treatment plan that fits your life.

My diverse background, from trauma care to outpatient psychiatry and clinical education, has strengthened my commitment to high-quality, collaborative care for patients of all ages.

At Granted Mental Health Services, my mission is to provide accessible, patient-centered care that honors your experiences and supports your journey toward a healthier, more balanced life. I’m grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside you.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Anita Johnson

Anita Johnson

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My approach is warm, direct, and practical. I believe therapy should meet you where you are while helping you develop a clearer understanding of what you're experiencing and what you want to change.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Energetic, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Robi Brewer

Robi Brewer

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe in developing a strong therapeutic rapport with my clients to ensure they are comfortable and feel safe throughout the therapeutic process.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 5 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
Jacqueline Vaca

Jacqueline Vaca

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe healing begins when you feel truly heard, but it grows through insight, self-compassion, and practical tools that help you move differently in your daily life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Bianca Conner

Bianca Conner

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“I don't believe in one-size-fits-all care—instead, I work collaboratively with you to create a plan that truly reflects your needs, preferences, and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 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
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
Mel Rivkin

Mel Rivkin

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I am a neurodivergent adult myself, and I bring cultural humility to the many different ways people experience the world.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Creative, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 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
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
Tosheta Brown-Greenfield

Tosheta Brown-Greenfield

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Calumet City, IL


“I am passionate about helping people take control of their mental health and achieve wellness in a supportive, compassionate environment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Sarah Brown-Foiles

Sarah Brown-Foiles

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Clients often describe me as calm, direct, and grounding—someone who brings clarity without judgment, even when things feel complicated.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Ana Aguirre

Ana Aguirre

Therapist

Virtual • Chicago, IL


“I also really enjoy working with pregnant individuals and supporting perinatal mental health, helping clients navigate the emotional changes that can occur during pregnancy and the postpartum period.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Challenging, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mercy Abunaw

Mercy Abunaw

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“During our sessions together, I will treat you with respect, compassion and understanding, exploring every evidence-based medication or technique possible to help you overcome the challenges that have been holding you back.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Francisco Rivera

Francisco Rivera

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Drawing on evidence-based practices like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and solution-focused techniques, I aim to help you develop practical tools to manage challenges and create meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 17 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
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
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
Priscilla Huley

Priscilla Huley

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is calm, down-to-earth, and easy to talk to. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and other life challenges...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 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
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
Henry Smith

Henry Smith

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative, and trauma-informed. I believe clients are the experts of their own lives...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Shanita Brown

Shanita Brown

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


With over 20 years of clinical experience, I bring a compassionate, understanding and results-driven approach to therapy. My education began at Chicago State University where I received bachelor's degree and Jane Addams College of Social Work where I received my masters. I specialize in helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, mood, and personality disorders with clarity and confidence. Together, we’ll build practical tools and deeper insight so you can feel more in control and live your best life.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 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
Dr. Linda Wickens

Dr. Linda Wickens

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hi, I’m Dr. Linda Wickens, a doctoral-level therapist and coach who works with individuals navigating stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, and patterns that keep them feeling stuck while preventing forward movement and growth. Many of my clients are high-functioning on the outside but feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or frustrated that change feels harder than it should.

Therapy and coaching with me are never one-size-fits-all. We work collaboratively to create a plan that is specific to you, your goals, and your capacity, adjusting pace and structure as your needs evolve. I focus on helping clients understand their patterns, build emotional awareness, and develop practical skills they can actually use in daily life.

I hold a Doctorate in Social Work and am a fully licensed clinical social worker, with over nine years of experience in the mental health field. My work integrates evidence-based therapy with a coaching-informed lens when appropriate, allowing sessions to be both supportive and goal-oriented while still making space to explore the past and its impact on the present.

Clients often describe my style as warm, direct, and collaborative. As part of my concierge model, clients work directly with me rather than an assistant, and I remain accessible to my clients outside of sessions through secure communication when needed. I believe growth happens through understanding, compassion, and honest conversation, and that progress is most sustainable when care feels personal, intentional, and consistent.

Please Note: I do not provide couples or marriage counseling. I do not treat adolescents under the age of 21. Additionally, I am not able to treat clients who are experiencing active suicidal ideation or self-harm behaviors. If these services are needed, I encourage seeking a provider who specializes in these areas or contacting appropriate crisis resources if immediate support is required.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Kemisola Ebietomiye

Dr. Kemisola Ebietomiye

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“I am receptive, holistic, and solution-oriented. My goal is for patients to leave their session feeling understood, with their concerns addressed, and a clear treatment plan in mind.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Allyson Stephens

Allyson Stephens

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My approach is highly collaborative, meaning we tailor our sessions entirely to your needs and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Shelly Lewin

Shelly Lewin

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


⭐ I’m Shelly Lewin, LCSW/LICSW, a therapist with 31 years of experience helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, identity issues, and major life transitions. I provide virtual therapy across Arizona, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, New Mexico, and West Virginia, offering accessible, evidence‐based care to clients seeking meaningful and lasting change. I have 30+ years of experience in private practice and leadership roles at organizations including:

  • The Joint Commission
  • Northwestern Memorial Hospital
  • Kaiser Permanente
  • Common Spirit
  • Mount Sinai Health System

This background allows me to offer deep clinical expertise paired with practical, real‐world understanding of how people heal and grow. My approach is warm, collaborative, open‐minded, and affirming. If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or ready for change, I’m here to walk beside you with steady support and clinically grounded guidance. I specialize in therapy for adults experiencing:

  • Anxiety & panic disorders
  • Depression & mood disorders
  • PTSD and trauma recovery
  • Substance use and addiction
  • LGBTQIA+ affirmative care
  • Men’s issues & identity exploration
  • Life and career transitions
  • Chronic illness & long-term stress

Additional areas of expertise include: Bipolar disorder, OCD, grief & loss, workplace stress, anger management, cultural/ethnic identity issues, expat adjustment, relationship issues, family challenges, and end-of-life concerns

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 9 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
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
Stephan Gombis

Stephan Gombis

Therapist

Virtual • Countryside, IL


“I believe in practical steps, giving my clients tools they can use in their daily lives to navigate challenges in a more fulfilling way.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Svetlana Burak

Svetlana Burak

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I provide a compassionate environment so you can safely explore your worries and other emotions that come with being human.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 7 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
Michelle Hall

Michelle Hall

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 29 mi away • North Aurora, IL


“My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. I integrate CBT, DBT, ACT, mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing to help clients recognize patterns, build effective coping skills, and create lasting change.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Raul Arambula

Raul Arambula

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Joliet, IL


“I believe therapy should feel like a safe place where you can be honest, feel understood, and work toward meaningful change without judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Teericka Kimbrough

Teericka Kimbrough

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Gurnee, IL


“My goal is to be a supportive aid to individuals during these difficult times by use of professional therapeutic knowledge and most importantly, through partnership, shared compassion, hope and belief in the person's ability to remember how...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

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

Number of therapists within 20 miles of Oak Park, IL
There are over 50 therapists in Oak Park, IL accepting new patients.
50+
Average years in practice
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11 years
Top specialties offered
Watercolor illustration of specialties
  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Stress management
  • 96%Anxiety
  • 96%Depression
  • 90%Relationship issues
Insurances accepted
Watercolor illustration of insurance cards
  • 100%Aetna
  • 96%Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois
  • 88%Cigna
  • 84%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 66%Ascension
Languages spoken
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  • 100%English
  • 10%Spanish
  • 6%Polish
  • 4%French
  • 4%German
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 98%In-person or online
  • 2%In-person only
Provider gender
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  • 74%Woman
  • 24%Man
  • 2%Non-binary
License types
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  • 44%Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
  • 44%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 6%Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
  • 6%Clinical Psychologist
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 46%Family therapy
  • 36%Couples therapy
  • 28%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.

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