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LGBT therapists in Peoria, IL

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Peoria, IL

LGBTQIA+ individuals in Peoria can access inclusive mental health support through Headway's diverse provider network of 759 licensed professionals. We offer talk therapy and medication management with providers who bring warmth, cultural competency, and solution-focused care to help you thrive authentically.

Shelley Johnson

Shelley Johnson

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Ringwood, IL


“I believe that mental wellness is a journey; and if one is willing to put in the effort, anything can be achieved.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 12 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
Khiara Mills

Khiara Mills

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe therapy should feel collaborative, authentic, and tailored to your unique needs and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Stress management, Trauma
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Loren Phillips

Loren Phillips

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I am warm, direct, and collaborative, and I bring genuine curiosity and deep respect to every session.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 5 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, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 8 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
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
Tabitha Keller

Tabitha Keller

Therapist

Virtual • Charleston, IL


“I specialize in trauma and often use EMDR and IFS. I enjoy working with individuals in the queer community.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Christina Miksis

Christina Miksis

Psychologist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is warm, practical, and collaborative. I want therapy to be a place where you feel comfortable being honest about what's going on while also gaining a clearer understanding of what may be keeping you stuck.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Gianna Rosenthal

Gianna Rosenthal

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is open but also directed. I want you to take the lead but I will try to steer you so that sessions are productive and forward moving.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Stephanie Darche

Stephanie Darche

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Swansea, IL


Hello! I’m Stephanie Darche, MA, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor(LCPC). My therapeutic style is empowering, nonjudgmental, warm, genuine and down to earth.

I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience in working with clients with concerns related to anxiety, depression, parenting, family conflict, communication, LGBTQI+, child/adolescent adjustment, behavior and mood disorders, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, ADHD, self-esteem, and life transitions.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 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
Keri Harshbarger

Keri Harshbarger

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe therapy is a collaborative process, and your goals, experiences, and needs are at the center of our work.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 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
Ganime Nazif

Ganime Nazif

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


If you're struggling with addiction, carrying the weight of complex trauma, or trying to cope while managing a chronic health condition, I want you to know there's a way forward — and you don't have to walk it alone. I'm a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CADC) with over 16 years of experience across private practice, residential substance abuse treatment, medical social work, and the non-profit world. I've sat with people in their hardest, most overwhelming moments, and I bring that same steady, non-judgmental presence to every session.


Much of my work centers on substance use and recovery, complex trauma, and the emotional toll of chronic medical conditions. Whether you're in the thick of a crisis or finally ready to address something you've carried for years, I'll meet you exactly where you are — with compassion, real tools, and zero judgment.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Heather Lopez

Heather Lopez

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hi, I’m Heather Lopez, LCSW. I help women, moms, and BIPOC professionals who are navigating anxiety, life changes, burnout, and the mental load of holding everything together. You might be the one everyone counts on—but lately, you’re wondering who’s checking on you.

Whether you’re adjusting to motherhood, working through family stress, or just trying to feel like yourself again, therapy can be a space to slow down and breathe. I work virtually with clients across Illinois. My style is warm, clinical, supportive, and down-to-earth (with the occasional well-placed joke). We'll explore your patterns, set real goals, and focus on healing in a way that actually feels useful in your daily life. I accept insurance and offer weekday sessions. If you're looking for a therapist who gets it and creates a judgment-free zone, let’s talk.


In addition to individual therapy, I offer a weekly 1-hour support group for moms experiencing overwhelm, anxiety, emotional exhaustion, and difficulty adjusting to the demands of motherhood.


This group focuses on emotional regulation, stress management, and reducing feelings of isolation through supportive, structured group processing.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jacob Bobrow

Jacob Bobrow

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Lincolnwood, IL


“I believe healing is about aligning mind, body, and daily life with the future you deserve and the goals you seek to achieve.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Yash Bedi

Yash Bedi

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with a background that includes years of work with people navigating some of the hardest chapters of their lives — including incarcerated individuals, people struggling with addiction, and those carrying cultural weight that doesn't show up in a standard intake form. I'm South Asian, I grew up navigating two worlds, and that shapes how I show up for clients who've had to figure things out without a clear map. I don't do therapy with a clipboard. I'm direct, I'm real, and I'm genuinely interested in what's underneath the surface.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kristin Elatkin

Kristin Elatkin

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Rolling Meadows, IL


“I take a holistic approach to mental health, understanding that psychological, emotional, and physical well-being are interconnected.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jaime Williamson

Jaime Williamson

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I believe therapy should feel like a space where you can show up as you are without judgment while also building practical tools for real change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Joi Haynes

Joi Haynes

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and imposter syndrome, focusing on women of color, teens, and queer-identifying individuals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Paige Fleeman

Paige Fleeman

Therapist

Virtual • Ashley, IL


“My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and client-centered. I believe that every person has unique strengths...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Kristine Bukala

Kristine Bukala

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Kristine believes therapy should be a place where individuals feel safe being honest about their experiences without fear of judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Kevin McClure

Kevin McClure

Therapist

Virtual • Peoria, IL


“My approach to therapy is collaborative, client-centered, and growth-oriented. I believe therapy works best when it feels like a partnership.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 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
Myriah Vargo

Myriah Vargo

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Hinsdale, IL


“My treatment style matches your personality and symptoms, with my quick sense of humor and proven techniques that will maximize effectiveness.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Brandi Rhoads

Brandi Rhoads

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Illinois


“Healthcare is more than treating acute and chronic conditions. We will treat the whole person—mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Mimoza Paloj

Mimoza Paloj

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My approach is to provide a safe and inquisitive space to process experiences effectively and provide skill building in each session.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Akila Sachdev

Akila Sachdev

Therapist

Virtual • Naperville, IL


“I typically use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Holistic therapy, and Somatic therapy to help my clients make progress and find strategies to make them feel empowered.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Kristina Casel

Kristina Casel

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Belleville, IL


“I believe prioritizing mental health is the key to our overall well-being and what allows us to truly live life thriving.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Alyson LoVerde

Alyson LoVerde

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


I understand what it's like to feel overwhelmed, stuck, or constantly on edge. Maybe you're emotionally drained, unmotivated, overthinking everything, or simply not feeling like yourself anymore. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, family conflict, divorce, co-parenting, work stress, grief, low self-esteem, and major life changes. I also specialize in supporting individuals who have experienced unhealthy relationships, domestic violence, emotional abuse, or narcissistic abuse. My goal is to provide a warm, down-to-earth, nonjudgmental, and safe space where you can feel understood, supported, and comfortable being yourself. You're not stuck. Healing is possible, and you do not have to go through it alone. When you're ready to take the next step, I'd be honored to support you on your journey.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Megan O'Rourke

Megan O'Rourke

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“I approach work with my clients from a trauma informed lens with consideration of how past experiences impact thoughts, feelings, relationships, and the body.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Mykal Merrill

Dr. Mykal Merrill

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Skokie, IL


“I believe people make sense when you understand the full context of their lives - their relationships, culture, identity, environment, history, and the experiences that shaped them.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jim Perabo

Jim Perabo

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


If you're functioning on the outside but privately exhausted, stuck, or carrying more than you've let on, you're in the right place. I work with adults, many in the LGBTQIA+ community, navigating trauma, grief, relationship strain, and major life transitions. A lot of my clients come in saying, "I know what my patterns are. I just can't seem to change them." That's exactly where we start. Together, we'll get underneath what's keeping you stuck and build a path forward that actually fits your life.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Direct, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Daniel Skubic

Daniel Skubic

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“My clinical focus is on supporting individuals who are in a mental health crisis, including those experiencing suicidal ideation and self-harming behaviors.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Humorous, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Jalesia Syas

Jalesia Syas

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Maybe you’ve gotten really good at functioning while quietly wondering why the same thoughts, emotions, or relationship patterns keep showing up. Anxiety can leave you overthinking everything, ADHD may make it hard to slow down or stay on track, depression can disconnect you from yourself, and trauma can continue shaping how you respond long after the experience is over. I work with adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, depression, trauma, and PTSD, along with identity concerns, relationship and family issues, stress, anger, grief, LGBTQIA+ and transgender experiences, and cultural or ethnic concerns when they’re part of the bigger picture. I believe therapy can be meaningful without feeling heavy all the time—there’s room to laugh, be yourself, and figure things out as we go. My goal is to help you understand yourself and your patterns more clearly so you can make choices that better reflect how you actually want to live, relate, and show up.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Brandon Lipin

Dr. Brandon Lipin

Psychologist

Virtual • Illinois


“My style is supportive, direct, and practical, with an emphasis on helping clients better understand themselves while building realistic tools for change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Anabelle Doulas

Anabelle Doulas

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


“Welcome! I am glad that you are here. You can come as you are. There is always going to be a seat right next to me.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Micaela Chappelle

Micaela Chappelle

Therapist

Virtual • Illinois


Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Master of Social Work that is passionate about supporting women, teens, and those who are navigating trauma, depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues, low self-esteem, and life stressors. Perhaps you who have not felt like yourself or have not found your voice due to everyone else having a say about your life choices. I believe that healing begins in a space where you feel heard, understood, and genuinely supported. With nine years experience and through lived experience, my work focuses on helping you manage those concerns, as I have worked with multiple populations including children, teens, and adults.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists in Peoria, IL

Number of therapists serving Peoria, IL
There are over 759 therapists in Peoria, IL accepting new patients.
759+
Average years in practice
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10 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 99%Anxiety
  • 96%Depression
  • 92%Stress management
  • 87%Trauma
Insurances accepted
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  • 99%Aetna
  • 97%Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois
  • 89%Cigna
  • 87%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 69%Ascension
Languages spoken
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  • 99%English
  • 7%Spanish
  • 1%Hindi
  • 1%Urdu
  • 1%French
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 90%Online only
  • 10%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 73%Woman
  • 24%Man
  • 3%Non-binary
License types
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  • 49%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 33%Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
  • 6%Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
  • 5%Full Practice Authority Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
  • 4%Clinical Psychologist
Treatment approaches
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  • 99%Individual therapy
  • 41%Family therapy
  • 30%Couples therapy
  • 19%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.