LGBTQIA+ Therapy

Come and be who you are

Maybe you or a loved one are questioning sexual orientation or gender identity. Or, perhaps you feel comfortable with your sexual and gender identities but want a space to be understood and process other aspects of your life. At our Northbrook, IL area and online therapy practice, we are honored to provide space and supportive environment for all individuals. We provide LGBTQIA+ therapy services for youth, adolescent, young adults, and adults.

LGBTQIA+ identities bring resiliency and unique challenges

The LGBTQIA+ community is large and diverse in terms of sexuality and gender identification but also within race, religion, ethnicity, nationality, and financial standing. This connectedness can provide an understanding, sense of resiliency, and strength. However, the queer community can also be at higher risk for mental health hardships. Below are just a few examples:

  • LGBTQIA+ youth are at greater risk for mental health conditions and suicide

  • LGBTQIA+ adults are at greater risk for depression and anxiety disorders

  • LGBTQIA+ adults are twice as likely to report symptoms of mental health difficulties than heterosexual, cis-gender adults

LGBTQIA+ therapy for trauma

The LGBTQIA+ community faces many forms of discrimination based on their identities. Labeling, stereotyping, denial of access and opportunities, and many forms of abuse are to name a few. Not surprisingly, identify-based discrimination can lead to shame and traumatic experiences. These experiences lead to higher levels of reported PTSD than the heterosexual, cis-gender community.

Image of a man kissing another mans cheek while they wear rainbow scarves. This image illustrates the healing that an LGBT therapist in Chicago, IL can provide folks in LGBTQIA+ therapy. | 60015 | 60062

Trauma therapy, specifically EMDR, can be a good option to help support those who have experienced trauma. Whether it is a “big T” trauma or “little t” trauma, our LGBTQIA+ therapists are here to help you process your trauma.

Letter of Readiness for Gender Affirming Surgery

In order to provide the best support for our trans individuals we also provide Letters of Readiness for Gender Affirming Surgery. This essential document, written by Kari Holman, supports individuals in their journey towards gender affirmation by fulfilling the requirements often needed by surgeons and insurance providers. We offer compassionate and informed evaluations, ensuring that every letter accurately reflects the readiness and individual needs of our clients, empowering them to take the next step in their transition with confidence and support.

So, what is holding you back?

We’ve heard many reasons not to pursue counseling. To name a few…

  • “I don’t have the time.”

  • “I’ve never met a therapist I’ve liked.”

  • “I’m not sure who specializes in queer-affirming therapy.”

We understand that starting counseling can be daunting. It may be hard to take that first leap to put yourself first and trust a therapist with your concerns. Rest assured that at our Chicago, IL-based therapy practice, our team will make the transition to working with us as smooth as possible.

Begin LGBTQIA+ Therapy in Northbrook, IL

If you are ready to begin your therapy journey with a team that is committed to affirming your identity, our therapists are ready to help. Our therapy practice prides itself in its commitment to our friends of the queer community. Additionally, our LGBTQIA+ therapy services are available online and in Northbrook, Illinois. Take the steps below to get started.

Image of two women holding one another and laughing. This image depicts the happiness found after LGBTQIA+ therapy in Chicago, IL. Search for "LGBT therapist near me" to get connected with therapy for LGBTQ. | 60015 | 60062

Other Services at Obsidian Counseling and Wellness

When you work with a therapist at our counseling practice in the Chicago, IL area, you will be met with compassion and authenticity. Our team feels honored to help guide folks along their healing process. Specifically, we help people in addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, and work stress. Additionally, we value the unique experiences of highly sensitive people and are happy to help them find balance in their lives. We hope that you take the leap to begin your healing journey with our team of specialized therapists.

Read More From Our LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists