While circumstances and needs are completely individualized, there are some common issues that those in the LGBTQ+ community face. Below are some main areas on which we focus:

Identity Exploration

Sorting out who you are and learning to accept your sexual identity can be an overwhelming process. For some people, “coming out” is terrifying because of fear of rejection. For others, it can be a freeing experience, but they find adjusting to a new way of living is more difficult than anticipated. No matter where you are on the journey, we accept you as you are and will help you explore your identity, anxiety, and obstacles so you cultivate a strong sense of self. We recognize that transgender and gender non-conforming individuals experience different needs and challenges. We have counselors who are very well trained in working with these individuals and have written referral letters for hormone replacement therapy.

Family Dynamics

Identifying as LGBTQ+ usually comes with some complex family dynamics. Most likely, your family members have been raised following more traditional norms, connected to set ideas on what is “normal” and expected. Because they are your family, you hope that parents, siblings, grandparents, children, etc. will support you in not following those norms and embrace your true self. Sadly, your family may lack understanding or the ability to empathize with someone who is different than them, leading to relationship distancing or even rejection. Our counselors will help you address the feelings caused by such actions, as well as guide you and those close to you in reaching a place of mutual respect and acceptance.

Romantic Relationships

Anyone dating or seeking a long-term committed relationship goes through similar challenges, i.e., how to start dating, finding someone you connect with, becoming intimate, building and maintaining a strong lasting relationship. But LGBTQ+ individuals have unique needs and concerns that may affect how they look for, find, and engage with someone sexually and romantically. Living in a mainstream heterosexual world, few role models exist for guidance when it comes to intimate relationships, and stigma, discrimination, or trauma may cause feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-esteem – all of which can impact your dating life and relationships. We will work with you to develop the right attitude and tools to help you feel confident navigating this complex journey.

Anxiety

Although our world has become more accepting of LGBTQ+ individuals, there is still much discrimination and bullying aimed at members of the community. As a result, you may be experiencing anxiety and depression stemming from your LGBTQ+ identity. It’s not uncommon to be scared to come out to family and friends thinking they will reject you, fear what will happen to your career if they find out at work that you’re not straight or cisgender, worry you will never find a partner, or stress about overt discrimination. Please know that we are here to listen to how you feel and help you manage your anxiety symptoms by teaching you a variety of techniques so you can be more relaxed and focused.

Trauma

LGBTQ+ individuals can face trauma on a number of levels. Maybe as a child you were bullied for being different. Or as an adult you were devastated by a coming out experience where you were rejected by loved ones. Perhaps you’ve been the victim of physical or sexual abuse because of your identity. These traumatic events can have long-lasting effects on your mental health and well-being. Our counselors, who are trauma informed, will help you work through the emotions you are feeling and provide the support and strategies you need to heal from the trauma you experienced. By unpacking and processing, we will help you grow to your authentic and genuine self.

Couples Counseling

LGBTQ+ couples face the same relationship challenges as heterosexual couples – communication issues, lack of sex and intimacy, infidelity, unresolved anger, parenting roles, and lack of closeness. But they also have added stressors, such as familial coming out or lack of acceptance, gender and sex roles, IVF/egg donors/sperm donors/surrogates, and gender transition. During your sessions, we’ll explore your feelings and help you talk about the difficult subjects so you can communicate more effectively and develop a better understanding of how to find balance, reduce conflict, and improve the overall quality of your relationship.

Gender Affirmation

Whether you’re excited to start exploring or anxious over having to hide who you are because of the way other people think, we will provide a safe space for you to explore your sexual identity and gender. Figuring out, coming to terms with, and living your authentic self can be complicated. We’re here to support and guide you on your journey, helping you to understand yourself more deeply and navigate your social and/or medical transition. With counselors that have specialized training in gender who write hormone replacement therapy referral letters, we can help you explore your options and determine the best path forward for you.