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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 23 ratings

Joshua Bird-Martinez

LCSW, 14 years of experience

Empowering
Authentic
Intelligent
Virtual
Next available on

About me

I’m a therapist passionate about helping others embrace their authentic selves and navigate life’s challenges with confidence. As a gamer, geek, and LGBTQIA+ individual, I understand the feelings of judgment, misunderstanding, and isolation that can come with these identities. My goal is to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether you're exploring your identity, processing past experiences, or seeking a sense of belonging, I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey.

Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

Our first session is all about creating a comfortable, safe space where you can share at your own pace. We'll discuss what brings you to therapy, what you hope to gain from it, and any concerns or questions you might have. I’ll also ask about your experiences, identity, and interests to better understand how I can support you. Most importantly, this is a time for you to get a sense of whether I’m the right fit for you—no pressure, just a conversation to start building trust and connection.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

One of my greatest strengths is my ability to create a warm, understanding, and judgment-free space where clients feel truly seen. Because I share many of the identities and experiences of the communities I serve, I deeply understand the challenges of feeling unheard or isolated. My approach is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and genuine care, helping clients feel safe enough to explore their identities, values, and goals. I also bring a unique perspective on finding community—both online and offline—and support clients in discovering connections that affirm and empower them.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

I work best with individuals who feel misunderstood or struggle to find a space where they truly belong. This includes gamers, geeks, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community who may have experienced isolation, discrimination, or difficulty reconciling different aspects of their identity. I also support those who are navigating faith and identity, processing past traumas, or seeking self-acceptance. My approach is especially beneficial for those who value a compassionate, identity-affirming, and community-centered therapeutic experience.

Specialties

Top specialties

Anxiety
Depression
LGBTQ

I identify as

Hispanic / Latinx
LGBTQ
Man

Serves ages

Adults (18 to 64)
Teenagers (13 to 17)

My treatment methods

Person-centered (Rogerian)

Our experiences don't define us, but rather they shape how we navigate our lives and relationships. The journey into therapy can feel overwhelming, requiring us to open up to a stranger and share our most vulnerable moments. I believe in creating a space where you feel accepted and valued just as you are. My approach is built on genuine care, respect, and support—without judgment. No matter what challenges you’re facing, you deserve to be heard and understood in a way that helps you feel safe and empowered. My goal is to walk alongside you as you explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences at your own pace, helping you gain clarity and confidence along the way. If you're looking for a therapeutic space that honors your individuality and empowers you on your journey, I invite you to take that next step. I would be honored to support you in creating the change you seek. Please feel free to reach out via email or phone for more information.

Location

Virtual

Licensed in

Illinois

Accepts

Aetna
Aetna - WebTPA
All Savers
AvMed
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Anthem
Cash - $150 per session
Cigna
EAP:Cigna
EAP:Evernorth
EAP:UnitedHealthcare/Optum
Evernorth
Golden Rule
Harvard Pilgrim/UnitedHealthcare
UnitedHealthcare/Optum
Optum
OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions
Oscar
Oxford
Surest (formerly Bind)
Tufts Health/Cigna
United Medical Resources
UnitedHealthcare Life Insurance
UnitedHealthcare Shared Services
UnitedHealthcare StudentResources
Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 23 ratings

4 ratings with written reviews

April 29, 2025

Joshua is a very intelligent person who has been giving me the strength and support I’ve been looking for a long time. He brings calming energy that lets you open up instantly and lets you be vulnerable in a way that makes you feel like you’ve known him your whole entire life.

Verified client, age 35-44

Review shared after session 5 with Joshua

March 27, 2025

I had an amazing first session I didn’t think I could feel so vulnerable and not be judged from meeting someone for the first time. He truly understands you and I’m looking forward to my next session.

Verified client, age 35-44

Review shared after session 1 with Joshua

March 18, 2025

THANK YOU!!!

Verified client, age 25-34

Review shared after session 1 with Joshua