I am a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in treating post-traumatic stress, substance use issues, anxiety, infidelity, phobias, and sleep problems. I also have experience developing leaders as a performance coach. My experience as a military leader and a student of the military culture uniquely equips me to work with our military veterans and their families. I have worked with hundreds of veterans and their families suffering from post-traumatic stress, substance abuse problems, secondary trauma, and other related disorders such as anxiety, grief, and loss. My therapy style is rooted in the practice of mindfulness, experiencing the present moment with intention. I believe that anyone can learn, practice, and eventually develop trait level mindfulness, incorporating the practice into every facet of their life. Developing these new habits of mind is key in achieving peace in one's life, in realizing the tranquility which is possible when the mind is allowed to experience feelings and thoughts, as opposed to avoidance and attempts to shut thoughts out and push them away. I take a holistic approach to helping others, focusing not just on the problem at hand, but also on the everyday parts of life which contribute to and complicate the problems. I use cognitive behavioral therapy modalities as well as other evidence-based practices. I believe a therapist should be a lifelong student of the field, and as such I am a voracious reader of research in the fields of health, wellness, and mental health. I don't have all of the answers, but then, that's not why I'm here. I'm here to help you find the answers to your problems, and I do so through a collaborative approach, walking side-by-side with you on this journey. Please note that my availability on the calendar are set and accommodations outside of those hours may not be possible.

Welcome! Are you ready for a truly transformative therapy experience? I’m Troy—a therapist who “gets it.” In a world often shaped by heteronormative expectations and conservative viewpoints, I offer a refreshingly affirming and queer-centric approach to therapy. Rooted in inclusivity and guided by a socially conscious, non-religious framework, I specialize in helping clients find authenticity and empowerment. Whether you're navigating personal challenges, exploring your identity, or working through systemic barriers, my practice is a space where you can feel safe, valued, and understood. What I Offer: I work with individuals seeking clarity, growth, and empowerment. My areas of focus include: Exploring and affirming queer identities Addressing anxiety, depression, and life transitions Supporting polyamorous relationships and alternative lifestyles Gender Dysphoria Assessments and Letters of Support for gender-affirming surgery (available through my private practice) My Approach on BetterHelp: I use BetterHelp as a way to meet new clients and introduce myself in a safe, no-commitment environment. It’s an opportunity for us to see if we’re a good match for longer-term work together. My focus here is short-term, goal-oriented care, typically lasting anywhere from 2 to 6 sessions. I don’t provide long-term care on BetterHelp because my availability on this platform is limited; I only accept new BetterHelp clients once or twice a year. If we both agree that continued work together would be beneficial, I’ll help transition you to my private practice, where we can develop a personalized, in-depth approach tailored to your needs. Transition to Private Practice: For long-term therapy, I offer comprehensive services in my private practice, including: Flexible cash rates comparable to subscription costs Insurance options, including United/Optum, BCBS, and Aetna A limited number of discounted session rates for those who qualify Access to my full therapy schedule for greater flexibility To learn more about my private practice, visit www.queertalktherapy.com. About Me: Beyond my professional expertise, I bring warmth, understanding, and a deep commitment to creating a space where you can feel truly seen and heard. My clients describe me as approachable, insightful, and someone who genuinely "gets it." Whether you're working through a challenging time or simply looking to better understand yourself, I’m here to guide you with empathy and evidence-based strategies. Let’s work together to make meaningful, lasting change. I look forward to connecting with you!

I am an LCSW with 20 years experience working with a variety of age groups to manage mood disturbances, attention/focus/motivation issues, stress management, and all the functional difficulties that accompany these challenges. My style is direct, honest, and compassionate. I don’t believe in sugar-coated so it’s important that there's open communication and transparency throughout the process. I’ve worked with many different people and situations in my career, so this is a judgement-free-zone. I use Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Solution Focused, Reality, and Psychodynamic therapies. I believe in the power of each person to work through issues with appropriate support. I know personally what it means to struggle and experience loss. I have experience in encouraging the strength and abilities of individuals, and also in working with known limitations. To me therapy is a partnership; you guide the process and I will not only listen, but offer support and resources to help you overcome or mitigate what’s going on for you. Together we will break things down, determine common themes, and identify what is and is not working for you. Using your vision for what you want in your life, you’ll gain the skills to go after it and replace the parts which no longer serve you.

Hello! My name is Jessica Milgrome, and I have been a licensed mental health clinician for the past 10 years. I am also a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (Career Counselor) and a Nationally Certified Counselor. My therapeutic approach is centered around the belief that therapy should be the least stressful aspect of your life. I have a very modern, casual style, and I aim to create a supportive and relaxed environment where you can feel comfortable and open. I have a very informal, direct, and casual style of communicating, often incorporating humor into our sessions. I like to ask questions and am happy to direct the session if that’s preferred, or I can simply sit and listen. I appreciate when clients tell me if they are seeking guidance, feedback, or just want to vent. I have worked with clients facing a wide range of concerns, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, and relationship issues such as breakups and marital conflicts. I also have experience in managing more severe mental health conditions like psychosis and trauma. My expertise extends to helping individuals cope with grief and loss, as well as addressing anger management issues. In addition to these areas, I focus on the development of interpersonal relationships, helping clients build and maintain healthy connections with others. I provide practical support with job placement and interview skills training, assisting clients in navigating career transitions and enhancing their professional lives. Most importantly, I offer guidance in cultivating self-love and navigating the process of forgiveness. I believe that developing a strong sense of self-worth and the ability to forgive oneself and others are crucial steps toward emotional healing and personal growth. My approach is holistic, addressing both the emotional and practical aspects of my clients' lives to help them achieve a balanced and fulfilling life. To give you an idea of the type of person I am—I'm a massive fan of stand-up comedy (laughing is life), I actually look forward to Mondays because that’s when Spotify releases new Discover Weekly playlists, and "When words fail, let the music speak" is essentially my mantra. Oh, and I have six dogs! As a therapist, my goal is to help my clients become the best version of themselves. Working together, we will improve self-esteem, identify triggers of symptoms, develop and effectively utilize coping skills, explore psychoeducational materials on areas of concern, facilitate and improve family relationships, discuss the effects of psychotropic medications, and develop a strong sense of self. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you! Jessica Milgrome

Hello my name is Valentina Gasparro and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor whom holds a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology. I have over 20 years experience in working with adults, children and adolescents providing individual therapy, , group and family therapy. I'm very eclectic in my approach and personable and try to help empower clients through mindfulness training, solution focused approaches, trauma focused care, meditative approaches such as EFT to best help clients reach their goals. I believe every client has the potential to promote their “best selves” and therefore making healthy decisions in their lives, which will offer more enrichment in their lives. I’m dedicated to helping clients improve their well being and it’s so exciting and fulfilling in seeing clients positively transforming their lives through therapy — I'm looking forward to helping you on your path to healing and self discovery!

My name is Marisol Cruz, and I am bilingual in English and Spanish. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have 24 years of experience working as a school counselor with children from kindergarten through 12th grade. I have worked with students with various diagnoses. My main objective in working with students is to help them by supporting and guiding them so they can carry on a daily routine in school and any environment. A partnership is developed, whereby children and adolescents are actively involved in helping to create personal growth and development in their lives. I work with families (not family counseling) helping them to create an environment that will establish routines at home so that the changes can be implemented and the children and adolescents feel a sense of support and accountability. I offer wraparound services to help families with the resources they need to live productive lives. Also, I provide services for adults with mild/ moderate depression, anxiety, relational support, life coaching, and more. Sessions will focus on the clients and their immediate needs. At the start of the sessions, we will discuss anything on their mind then concentrate on the main goal of the therapy session and work together towards meeting expectations. The therapeutic process will be empathetic, and compassionate, and the client should feel safe to express themselves in a non-judgmental environment. Specialty: Behavior Anxiety Depression ADHD Clinical approaches: CBT Client Center Therapy Motivational Interviewing Years of experience: 4

As a clinician, my goal is to assist clients in exploring and defining their truest self to allow for self-acceptance. By working from a strengths- based perspective, I hope to collaborate with my clients to equip them with individualized skills, so that they are able to achieve their personal goals. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, issues related to stress, and trauma. I have experience in providing services to children, teenagers, adults and older adults. I believe that we are the experts in our lives. My role is not to 'fix' my clients, but to foster a partnership that addresses their challenges and highlights their strengths. In my practice, I strive to create a setting in which clients can feel comfortable and safe to express themselves without fear of judgment

Hi there. I know how challenging it can be to handle the stresses and difficulties life throws at you. I want you to know I am here to support you and walk this path alongside you. I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Illinois with 8 years of experience working as a therapist. I specialize in working with neurodiverse individuals, such as those with autism, ADHD, and behavioral challenges, as well as LGBTQAI+ individuals. I have also worked with clients with a wide range of other concerns including anxiety, family relationship difficulties, and parenting challenges. My therapy style is very warm, understanding, and collaborative. I believe that you are the expert on yourself, and I am an expert in psychology, so when we work together, we can figure out what will work best for you to help you live a life that is happy and fulfilling. My approach combines cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance commitment therapy with elements of mindfulness and meditation within the family and community contexts. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you! -Dr. Jenna

I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Illinois with over 20 years of clinical experience. I am adept in the implementation of individual & group counseling, life coaching, and mentoring, specifically focusing on the importance of understanding one’s concept of self-worth. My expertise is in helping clients with processing emotional stressors triggered by anxiety, depression and unresolved generational trauma. I believe that you are the expert of your life story with many strengths and emerging strengths that will assist you in processing the emotional stressors that challenge you. Taking the first step towards seeking a more fulfilling and joyous life takes courage. I am here to support you in that journey, and I look forward to working with you!

I am licensed in Illinois with 23 years of professional clinical work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQIA+ related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. Prior to my most recent clinical experience, I have ten years of working in the Foster Care system I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I am licensed in Illinois with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

I am licensed in Illinois with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I am licensed in Illinois with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

I am licensed in Illinois with 4 years of professional work experience, and nearly 6 years in the mental health field overall. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, coping with life changes, & concentration, memory. I also have experience working with focus (adhd). Having worked in the foster care field, an autism clinic, and a private practice setting, I have plenty of experience with almost every type of negative emotion that one can think of. My work in the field has been primarily with adolescents/teenagers, and I find that they are an incredible population to work with. Old enough to understand basic therapy techniques, but young enough to mold themselves into anything that they want to be in life. My current work has a range of working with individuals ranging from age 20, to the age of 11. I am sympathetic to the stressors that teenagers and young adults are facing in our constantly changing world, and I look forward to my interactions with them every day. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

I am licensed in Illinois with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with addictions, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with clients who are coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.