Maddix Clements, LSW

As a neurodivergent therapist, long bios may feel overwhelming, feel free to read what speaks to you—and book a free 15-minute consultation if you have questions or would like to learn more. 

Who am I: A storyteller, social worker, and emerging therapist with over 15 years of experience supporting unhoused communities, LGBTQIA+ youth, people living with HIV, refugees, and those navigating mental health and substance use challenges. My work extends beyond the therapy room—into advocacy, organizing, and direct action across Chicago.

I believe healing is both personal and political. Our mental health does not exist in a vacuum—it’s shaped by systems of oppression including racism, transphobia, fatphobia, ableism, misogyny, antisemitism, colonialism, and capitalism. These forces deeply inform our lived experiences and cannot be separated from our therapeutic work.

As a Trans Fem Bisexual pre-licensed therapist who is living with HIV, Autism, and ADHD; I understand the complexities of identities. My approach in therapy is authentic and with a deep commitment to creating a space that I once needed during my mental health crisis.

Approach: I utilize harm reduction, trauma-informed, person-centered, strength-based, solution-focused, narrative therapy, and elements of DBT. I am especially attuned to the needs of people who feel out of place in traditional therapeutic spaces. I offer an inviting environment where you are free to lead sessions, and show up as your most authentic selves.

Individuals often describe my presence as gentle, grounding, and authentic. In sessions, I show up as my full self—direct yet compassionate, curious yet steady—creating space for individuals to explore emotions and imagine new possibilities beyond survival. I believe in the healing power of connection, community, and being seen as your most authentic self.

Identities Supported: As a Queer, Transgender, HIV-positive, ADHD, and Autistic person who has experience in going no contact and detransitioning. I hold deep empathy for the complexities of identity. I bring this understanding into the space we create together—one rooted in safety, trust, and authenticity. I see healing not as a destination, but as an ongoing process supported by community, connection, and your innate resilience. 

I support individuals with exploring experiences such as trauma, coming out, sex, sexuality, kink, polyamory, non-monogamy, relationship issues, grief, family estrangement, generational trauma, gender dysphoria and substance use. 

Values: My work is rooted in anti-oppression, anti-racist, anti-zionist, anti-colonialism, anti-imperialism, and liberation for all.

Hobbies: In my free time, I also work full time as a supervisor for a local nonprofit, and support individuals living with mental health conditions and substance use challenges. I enjoy going home after a long day and seeing the new growth on my houseplants and laying with my pets including my 1 dog (Bixby), 2 cats (Maggie, and Onyx), and my bearded dragon (Penny or Penny and The Jets or Penny Lane). I also enjoy hiking, cycling, and baking bread.