Dr. Cynthia L. Doodeman, Psy.D.

Dr. Cynthia Doodeman, Psy.D., is a dedicated psychotherapist in private practice at Queer Notions Psychology in Chicago, Illinois. With over two decades of clinical experience, she specializes in working with adults, couples, polycules, and individuals from BIPOC and other marginalized communities. Her client-centered approach emphasizes holistic care, recognizing the interdependent relationship between mind, body, and spirit. Dr. Doodeman works with a diverse range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal struggles, and self-defeating behaviors, offering compassionate support tailored to each individual’s needs.

Before establishing her private practice, Dr. Doodeman served in several leadership roles within the mental health field, including Clinical Director at First Rate Rehabilitation Group and Lead Psychologist for Program Development at LifeCore Rehab and Counseling. She has extensive experience supervising clinicians, developing clinical programs, and implementing systems to improve patient care. Her work has spanned both individual therapy and programmatic development for patients with severe and persistent mental illness, demonstrating her ability to blend clinical expertise with organizational leadership.

Dr. Doodeman earned her Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from the Forest Institute of Professional Psychology, where she was a founding member of Students Promoting Multicultural Awareness and Appreciation. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from DePaul University. Deeply committed to social justice and cultural competency, Dr. Doodeman integrates her understanding of intersectionality—particularly as a Jewish, lesbian, lower-class woman—with her clinical practice, fostering an inclusive and empowering environment for all clients.

• Forest Institute of Professional Psychology - Psy.D.