Trans, Gender Diverse, and Intersex

LifeWorks welcomes trans, genderqueer,  gender non-conforming, gender diverse, nonbinary, and intersex individuals (as well as anyone with an LGBTQIA identity) seeking a trans-affirming therapy space. Some clients want help addressing questions about gender identity, expression and presentation, the transition process, inner conflicts, relationship issues, or concerns about families, places of work, and communities. Other trans clients seek therapy for issues unrelated to gender, but who are seeking a space in which they will not need to educate their clinician or have their identities pathologized.

Understanding and Support

Our practice is rooted in a deep belief in the value of diversity for ourselves, our families, our clients, our communities and our world. Clinicians at LifeWorks strive to understand and support individuals facing various issues, challenges and beliefs including, but not limited to, the following:

• distinguishing issues related to sexual orientation, gender identity, expression and presentation
• navigating transitions
• family of origin conflicts, concerns and problems
• difficulties and fears related to dating and intimate relationships
• navigating the intersections of gender and race or culture
• specific issues and risks faced by trans, queer and gender diverse youth
• the effects of stigma (i.e., prejudice, discrimination, and violence) toward trans, queer and gender diverse people
• the perception that persons identifying as trans, queer or gender diverse are inherently mentally ill
• the belief that gender is fixed and biologically-determined
• previous experiences with therapists who lacked knowledge of or who held biases against trans and gender diverse people
• conditions in the world (extended family, school, work, religious organizations, community and legislation) that are hostile to, devalue or do not recognize trans and gender diverse individuals as equal to cisgender individuals deserving all the same rights and considerations

While some social attitudes are changing, many trans and gender-diverse people are still encountering and healing from stigma, harassment, discrimination, violence, and the wounds inflicted by a society that wasn’t created for them. If you are someone who wants support to work through these or other issues, please give us a call at 847-568-1100.

Trans and Gender Diverse Therapists

• Danielle Carlson, LMFT, Clinical Director
• Essie Shachar-Hill, LCSW, Programs Manager
• Mars Vallon, MSW
• Mickala Randby, LCSW