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Therapy for Gay Men and LGBTQ+ Adults - Chicago & Virtual

On the outside, life may look steady and successful. Work is fine, friendships are in place, and we might even seem to have it together. Yet even when everything appears to be working, it can still feel like something is missing. Many of us carry a quiet sense of disconnection, a pull toward proving ourselves, or a doubt that lingers beneath the surface.

At Tenon Collective, we focus on Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy for men, with deep expertise in supporting gay men. The work is not about fixing what is wrong with us (because the truth is that there is nothing wrong with us). It is about creating a safe space to explore the parts of us that have carried too much for too long and to reconnect with the confidence, clarity, and compassion that are already within.

When Success Is Not Enough

Success and stability can be meaningful, but they do not always heal the parts of us that feel unseen or unworthy. Many of us learned early on to hide our vulnerabilities, to push through pain, or to measure ourselves only by performance. For gay men, this can come with added weight like expectations to prove value, pressures to fit in, or the feeling of needing to guard against judgment.

These strategies help us move forward, but they rarely bring the deeper sense of belonging and connection we deserve.

How IFS Therapy Helps

IFS therapy offers a compassionate way to understand and work with the different parts of ourselves. Together we will:

  • Recognize the patterns that protect us by pushing harder or shutting down.

  • Access our true Self, leading to a greater sense of calm and compassion that has always been within.

  • Strengthen our connection with ourselves, which naturally improves our connection with others.

  • Create more space for confidence, connection, and choice in our lives.

Who We Work With

We focus on therapy for men, with particular expertise in the unique challenges faced by gay men. We also welcome women and LGBTQ+ adults who are navigating anxiety, self-doubt, relationships, or life transitions. Whether in Chicago or virtually, our goal is to create a safe and supportive space where we can feel seen and understood.

Therapy in Chicago and Virtually

Our office is based in Chicago, and we also offer virtual sessions across Illinois. Whether we are meeting in person or online, therapy at Tenon Collective is consistent, collaborative, and grounded in trust.

Take the Next Step

We do not have to carry this alone. When we are ready to explore life beneath the surface and move toward a more connected, confident way of living, IFS therapy can help.

Call, contact us, or book a consultation today to take the next step.