Nice to meet you!

〰️Marlee Gebhard, LCSW (she/they) 〰️

I’m a pleasure-centered and strengths-focused therapist who is passionate about helping queer, trans, and neurodivergent folks let go of limiting cultural expectations, tune into what they truly want, and embrace self-kindness. If you struggle with issues related to sexual health, identity, eroticism, executive functioning, self-doubt, overthinking, harsh self-criticism, or people-pleasing, we might be a good fit. My hope is by the end of our work together, you will develop pride in your most authentic self and be able to move through anxieties with confidence and care.

My approach is warm, trauma-informed, celebrates all identities, and is rooted in mindfulness. I see my clients as the experts in their own experiences and tailor treatment to meet each person’s individualized needs.

The styles I pull from most often are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Feminist Therapy. I have a deep appreciation for the lived experiences of my clients and am grateful you’re here.

Get to know me

Marlee having fun in a boob shaped bounce house. Marlee strives to create an environment where clients can explore their sexuality

Self-proclaimed sex nerd. This photo is from The Museum of Sex in NYC. And yes, I highly recommend visiting.

Marlee, and a friend, at an emo night concert, smiling and enjoying the event. Marlee specializes in LGBTQ therapy, Autism and neurodivergent affirming therapy, anxiety, self esteem, and sex therapy.

Me and my BFF at Emo Nite. Holler at me if you like Knocked Loose, La Dispute, Bring Me the Horizon, Modest Mouse, Show Me the Body, The Strokes, alt-J, or my personal not so guilty pleasure, Fame on Fire.

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

IL License #149.025532

CO License #09931583

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

TL;DR

What is sex therapy?

  • A form of talk therapy that helps you explore

    • Intimacy

    • Desire

    • Identity

    • Pleasure

  • Grounded in evidence-based approaches and a nonjudgmental, affirming stance

  • No physical touch or sexual activity takes place during sessions

What I support…

  • Identity development

  • Sexual desire discrepancies

  • Sexual problems

  • Painful sex

  • Difficulty with orgasm

  • Dissociation during sex

  • Sensory sensitivities related to sex

How I work…

  • Pleasure-centered

  • Anti-oppressive

  • Trauma-informed

  • Mindfulness-based

  • Feminist approach

  • ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)

  • DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy)

  • CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

Who I work with…

  • Adults who are*…

    • LGBTQ+

    • Asexual or aromantic

    • Neurodivergent

    • Disabled

    • Kinky or BDSM-involved

    • Sex workers

    • Polyamorous or non-monogamous

    • Single and exploring intimacy on their own terms

    • Individuals who are curious to expand their lens on gender, sexuality, and relationships

      * If you don’t see your identity listed here but feel connected to my approach, you’re still welcome. I’d love to learn more about your experience

What I believe…

  • Talking about sex will change the world

  • You don’t have to “fix” yourself to be worthy of intimacy

  • There’s really no “TMI” in therapy

Where can you see me?

  • Colorado (virtual only)

  • Illinois (virtual only)