LGBTQIA+ Individual Therapy
Stigma, in any form, is an impediment to the well-being of those who experience it. But not all stigma comes in the form of hostility. There are many LGBTQIA+ “friendly” therapists that inadvertently assume that your relationship structure, goals and health should look like heteronormative models.
I am committed to helping clients of all genders, sexual identities and expressions feel not only safe but start from a place that validates your relationship without starting from a cis-het model of “healthy”.
LGBT+ competent counseling also isn’t necessarily directly about living up to any of those labels. Often issues in counseling are informed by how society has responded to these sexual identities; however, it starts with welcoming and valuing people first. My clients are people who want safety, security, acceptance and a sense of belonging. They are people who want to love and be loved openly.
Other issues relating to gender identity and sexual orientation exist beyond the closet and discrimination. People struggle with histories of assault, trauma, AIDS, body image, relationships and intimacy, eating disorders, substance abuse, domestic violence, rape. What is important to understand in therapy is that these issues are not present because of identity. These traumas and struggles did not create their identity either. They are only issues for therapy because bad things have happened to otherwise healthy people who want to live more free and fulfilled lives.
If you, or someone you know, is looking for a LGBTQI+ competent therapist, for whatever their social or emotional needs call today.