rae mcdaniel, MEd, LCPC, CST

(they/them)

Languages: English

* Welcome *

You’re standing at the edge of something big—and maybe a little scary.

Whether it’s a shift in gender, sexuality, relationships, or simply who you know yourself to be, you’re ready for something more. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just have to be curious and ready to begin. I’d be honored to walk with you as we find out what’s possible—together.

* My Focus *

I specialize in working with transgender and non-binary folks, queer and LGBTQ+ clients, and anyone exploring sex, gender, identity, and relationships. I particularly love working with creatives, leaders, and change-makers who are moving through life transitions, coming into their next evolution, or working to live more fully aligned with their values. I support individuals, couples, and polycules navigating desire, connection, healing, and growth. 

* My Approach *

I bring a warm, collaborative, and no-bullshit style to therapy. My clinical approach draws from internal family systems (IFS), sex therapy, Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and somatic and trauma-informed modalities. I am a certified sex therapist and bring a depth of experience working with relationships, kink, polyamory, and sex work–affirming care. I am also a trained coach in Equity Centered Coaching, supporting leaders and creatives take the next big leap, figure out what is working and what isn’t, and find greater alignment in their work and lives.

I believe that curiosity, play, and pleasure are powerful agents of change. Together, we’ll explore what’s working, what’s not, and how you want to rewrite the story. 

* My Philosophy on Therapy *

Therapy should be a space where you get to be all of who you are. My work is rooted in queer theory, liberation psychology, and an intersectional lens. I believe in the power of creating new narratives, challenging oppressive systems (internal and external), and finding ways to come home to yourself. Good therapy is collaborative, brave, playful, and liberatory—it’s where we stop surviving and start living. 

* Credentials & EXPERIENCE *

  • Certified Coach in Equity Centered Coaching, In Progress

  • LCPC in IL

  • CST through AASECT

  • MEd in Counseling, DePaul University

I am the Founder of Practical Audacity and the author of the peer-reviewed article, The Gender Freedom Model. I am the author of AASECT Book of the Year (2025), Gender Magic-a first-of-its-kind practical guide to achieving gender freedom with joy, curiosity, and pleasure for transgender and non-binary individuals, gender explorers, and those who love them

Over the past 13+ years, I’ve worked as a therapist, coach, author, speaker, and educator supporting folks across the spectrum of gender and sexuality. I’ve trained clinicians and organizations across the country in gender diversity, queer-affirming care, and sex therapy. My work has been featured in publications such as the New York Times, The Chicago Tribune, Time, and Women’s Health. As a sought-after professional speaker, I’ve spoken at Rutgers University, University of Chicago, University of Illinois Chicago, Soho House, and The Wing.

* More About Me *

I’m a non-binary queer, disabled human who believes in the power of story, pleasure, and personal alchemy. I find joy in fire spinning (catch me at the Full Moon Fire Jam), the Arts, nature, and helping others shine. I live in Chicago with my partner and our dog, Gizmo, who might actually be a gremlin. 

I bring my full, imperfect self to this work—and I welcome yours with open arms.