At Geode Health, we believe that mental healthcare is not a privilege—it’s a fundamental need that every person deserves access to. As we recognize the importance of inclusion during Pride Month and throughout the year, we reaffirm a core part of who we are: a mental health provider that welcomes and supports everyone, regardless of their background, identity, or experience.
This month presents an opportunity for many to celebrate their identity, reflect on challenges, and continue advocating for equality. For us at Geode, it’s also a meaningful reminder of the critical role mental health plays in the well-being of all communities—and our responsibility to ensure that care is accessible, affirming, and grounded in respect for every individual we serve.
We know that barriers to care still exist, and that they can be even more pronounced for LGBTQ+ individuals. From stigma to discrimination to a shortage of affirming providers, many people still face obstacles to finding the help they need. That’s why we are deeply committed to delivering care that meets people where they are—care that is safe, inclusive, and grounded in clinical excellence.
“As a trans mental health therapist who focuses on LGBTQIA+ affirming care, I know how important it is for people to feel safe and understood when seeking support”, shared Adrian Cardenas, therapist at Geode Health’s Algonquin, IL location. “For many in marginalized communities, having a therapist who respects and affirms their identity can make a big difference in their healing. Everyone deserves care that helps them feel seen, accepted, and supported.”
Many of our providers bring not only professional training but also a deep understanding of the unique mental health needs of the LGBTQ+ community. Whether someone is navigating identity, seeking support for depression or anxiety, healing from trauma, or simply looking for a therapist or psychiatrist who truly listens, our team is here to help with empathy, skill, and a strong commitment to inclusive care.
Dr. Joel M. Filmore, Professor of Counseling and a Clinical Therapist at Geode Health in St. Charles, IL, shares, “For many in the LGBTQ+ community, especially queer people of color, therapy can be a critical space to rebuild identity, reclaim power, and find peace. My presence in this field demonstrates that healing is possible, regardless of where you start. At Geode, I’m proud to be part of a team committed to inclusion, representation, and creating spaces where every person feels seen and supported.”
At Geode, we are intentional about building a culture of inclusion—one that affirms people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, races, ethnicities, faiths, and lived experiences. We understand that healing occurs best in environments where people feel safe being their authentic selves. That’s why we invest in training, hire with diversity in mind, and constantly seek to improve the ways we support both our patients and our providers.
Mental health care can be life-saving for members of the LGBTQ+ community, especially when it creates space for authenticity, safety, and healing. Dr. Filmore knows this not only as a clinician, but through lived experience:
“My journey to becoming a therapist began through surviving profound trauma—childhood abuse, addiction, homelessness, incarceration—and ultimately choosing healing over shame. As a biracial, queer, trans-identifying person, I know firsthand how often LGBTQ+ individuals are forced to hide parts of themselves just to feel safe. That constant masking takes a deep toll on mental and emotional well-being. In my work, I emphasize the power of authenticity—because true healing can only begin when people feel safe to be fully themselves.”
We are proud to feature clinicians who are passionate about serving LGBTQ+ individuals and who have chosen to specialize in this important work. Their voices and expertise enrich our mission, helping us provide care that’s as diverse and dynamic as the communities we serve.
As we continue to grow across the country, Geode Health remains grounded in our mission: helping people feel better, faster, by delivering personalized, compassionate mental health care. We stand for access. We stand for dignity. We stand for inclusion every month of the year.
Mental health is for everyone. And at Geode, so is our care.
Our booking tool allows for specialty searches. Visit www.book.geodehealth.com to find a provider that is the right fit for your mental healthcare needs.
