About Joshua Bird-Martinez

Nuyorican, Gaymer & Therapist in the Chicagoland Area

Hello, hello, hello!

I am Joshua Bird-Martinez.

Pronouns: he/him/his

I'm passionate about helping others find and strengthen their voices, and fully embrace who they are. I especially enjoy working with gamers, geeks, and LGBTQIA+ flox, as I share these identities and understand the feelings of judgment, misunderstanding, and isolation that can come with them. I also know the value of finding supportive communities, both online and offline.

During my graduate studies at the University of Illinois at Chicago, I balanced full-time work, full-time studies, and part-time internships, leaving little time for friends and family. Despite missing many important events, I found a sense of belonging through online gaming communities, where I felt connected and understood, even though our intersecting identities varied.

These connections revealed how many people felt misunderstood and struggled to find supportive professionals who recognized their unique circumstances.

This resonated deeply with my own experiences of feeling discriminated against for being queer in a religious household and navigating the complexities of my religious beliefs with my identity as a Latinx gay man. It inspired me to become a therapist dedicated to helping others feel seen, heard, and understood.

In my therapeutic approach, I am committed to guiding individuals through their journey with a compassionate and empathetic lens. Recognizing the profound impact of past experiences, I strive to provide a supportive and understanding environment.

I find fulfillment in walking alongside others on their unique journeys. While each path is distinct, I deeply value the importance of having someone by your side, no matter where the road leads. There is no shame in exploring and understanding aspects of your identity, whether it involves gender, sexuality, or values.

Embracing and celebrating the process of discovering more about who you are is a vital and empowering experience.

My commitment to this work stems from a belief in the validity of every individual’s journey and the importance of their voice being heard. I am driven by the opportunity to help others use their experiences and passions to navigate life's challenges with confidence.