Seeing you, Illinois

〰️Marlee Gebhard, LCSW (she/they) 〰️

Marlee Gebhard, LCSW standing by a the Chicago lakefront with the skyline in the background, wearing a beige top and dark skirt.

Compassionate care, anywhere in Illinois

I am a queer-, trans-, and neurodivergent-affirming therapist licensed to treat clients across Illinois, including Chicago, Evanston, Oak Park, Naperville, Aurora, and wherever you call home.

All of my therapy sessions are virtual and take place on a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform. I usually show up in comfy clothes, with my weighted lap pad, a cup of herbal tea (right now it’s a mix of Egyptian licorice and peppermint), and often a sleeping cat nearby, I want you to feel comfortable too, so feel free to come as you are, whether that’s sweatpants, a messy bun, blanket burrito, or anything in between.

Honoring your sensitivity

A lot of the folks I work with would describe themselves as sensitive souls.

Sensitive to how others perceive them

Sensitive to sounds, smells, textures, or bright lights

Sensitive to rejection - real or imagined

In our work together, we’ll listen to your sensitivity rather than try to change it. Sensitivity isn’t a problem to solve, but a part of you that deserves gentleness and care. Your nervous system might be asking for softness, safety, or slowness in a world that often moves too fast.

We might focus on…

  • Creating sensory-friendly environments - think soft lighting, noise-canceling tools, comforting textures

  • Building in transition time between activities to help your nervous system recalibrate

  • Finding ways to communicate, even when it’s hard to find the words

  • Challenging the belief that you have to earn rest, love, or belonging

If you’re anywhere in Illinois and want a space where you can be fully, tenderly yourself, I’m here. I work with neurodivergent and queer folks in a way that’s curious, thoughtful, and never rushed. Whether this is a kind of therapy you’ve done before or something you’re just starting to explore, you’re welcome here.

want to reach out?
A woman with long brown hair, wearing a white shirt and light blue jeans, sitting on a concrete ledge by the water with her back to the camera, overlooking the Chicago skyline.

Education

Master’s of Science in Social Work | University of Tennessee

Bachelor’s of Arts | Lipscomb University

Sex Therapy Certificate | University of Michigan

Trauma Treatment Certificate | University of Tennessee

Autism Across the Lifespan Certificate | Zur Institute

License & Affiliations

LCSW

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Illinois License: #149.025532

Colorado License: CSW09931583

AASECT Member

American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists

KPACT Member

Kink and Polyam Aware Chicago Therapists

Meet the Team

Please do not hesitate to share if you’d prefer my feline colleagues not join us

  • Marlee's cat, Ella, who has a thick white coat and blue eyes. Marlee is a neurodivergent therapist in Chicago

    Ella

    CHIEF NAPPING OFFICER

    Ella is a Siberian Forest Cat who elegantly occupies my desk, lending her serene presence to the occasional session, often drifting into a peaceful slumber

  • Marlee's cat, Pumpkin, a gray tabby with green eyes

    Pumpkin

    PAW-SITIVE ENERGY MANAGER

    Pumpkin, the gray and white tabby, is my steadfast timekeeper. She gently nudges me to remember to take my breaks on time #selfcare

  • Bestie has calico fur and green eyes. Marlee incorporates the therapeutic value of animals to support clients' mental health and reduce anxiety

    Bestie

    CHIEF CUDDLE OFFICER

    Bestie, the calico queen, reigns over lap time, ensuring ample cuddles and moments of affection, infusing our sessions with warmth and companionship

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes. I offer online therapy to adults, couples, and other relationship configurations across Illinois. Whether you’re in Chicago, Naperville, Evanston, Rockford, Champaign, Peoria, or anywhere else in the state, you can access therapy from wherever you feel most comfortable. You simply need to be physically located in Illinois for each session.

  • Online therapy gives you greater flexibility without sacrificing the quality of care. You can avoid traffic, save travel time, and attend sessions from a space where you already feel safe and comfortable. Many clients find that this convenience makes it easier to stay consistent with therapy.

  • I primarily work with LGBTQ+ adults, Autistic and other neurodivergent folks, couples, and people seeking sex therapy. If you’re looking for an affirming therapist who values authenticity, collaboration, and creating a space where all parts of your identity are welcome, we may be a good fit. I offer free consultations where you can ask questions and see whether working together feels right.

  • Absolutely. While many of my clients are from the Chicago area, I work with people throughout Illinois. Online therapy allows you to access specialized care regardless of whether you live in a large city, a suburb, or a more rural community.

  • I commonly support folks with anxiety, self-esteem, executive functioning challenges, relationship concerns, intimacy and sexuality, identity exploration, communication, and navigating life transitions. Therapy is tailored to your goals rather than focusing on a one-size-fits-all approach.

  • Most clients begin with weekly sessions to get started and build momentum. As your needs change, we can discuss transitioning to every other week or another schedule that best supports your goals.

Request an appointment