My commitment to providing mental health care access to all includes supporting the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals. My practice is welcoming to all members of the community, including those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, questioning, queer, intersex, asexual, non-binary, and gender non-conforming. I strongly believe in the value of diversity for ourselves, our families, our communities, and our world.

In addition, my practice is trans-affirming, acknowledging that trans identities and LGBQIA identities are not mutually exclusive. I understand that the transgender community faces unique challenges, and I am here to provide help and support for questions related to gender identity, expression, and presentation, as well as the transition process, relationship issues, and concerns about families, work, and communities. I also provide a safe and inclusive space for trans clients seeking therapy for issues unrelated to gender.

Make it stand out.

While being part of the LGBTQIA+ community can be a source of strength, it also presents distinct mental health challenges. Studies show that LGBTQIA+ individuals are more than twice as likely as heterosexual individuals to experience a mental health disorder in their lifetime, and are also 2.5 times more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, and substance abuse issues. At my practice, I am dedicated to addressing these challenges and providing support for the mental health and well-being of all individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community.

 

Common challenges that those within the LGBTQIA+ community face include:

  • Perceived mental illness due to sexual orientation

  • Experience of stigma, prejudice, discrimination, and violence

  • Belief that sexual orientation can be forcibly changed

  • Previous negative experiences with therapists who lacked knowledge of or held biases against LGBTQIA individuals

  • Difficulty in distinguishing issues of sexual orientation from gender identity

  • Relationship issues

  • Hostility or lack of recognition of LGBTQIA relationships or families by institutions such as extended family, school, work, religious organizations, and community

  • Family of origin conflicts and concerns

  • Challenges faced by Queer and Trans People of Color (QTPOC)

  • Specific issues and risks faced by LGBTQIA youth, including ridicule, unfair questioning of their identity, homophobic comments, physical assault, and hate-based attacks

  • Pressure to conform to gender roles leading to internal and external conflicts

  • Difficulty in dealing with constant confusion about their sexual orientation or gender identity from others, leading to unresolved anger and frustration that may affect their ability to trust others

  • Lack of self-esteem exacerbated by the above issues.

I can work with you to develop coping strategies and tools to reduce anxiety and promote overall well-being.

Depression:

LGBTQIA+ folx are more likely to experience depression compared to their heterosexual counterparts. I can help you explore the underlying factors contributing to your depression and develop a personalized treatment plan to address it.

Gender identity and expression:

LGBTQIA+ folx may struggle with questions related to their gender identity and expression. I can provide a safe and supportive space to explore these questions and work towards greater self-understanding and self-acceptance.

Internalized homophobia or transphobia:

Society's prejudices against the LGBTQIA+ community can lead to internalized feelings of shame, guilt, or self-hatred. I can help you work through these feelings and develop a positive self-image.

Navigating discrimination and prejudice:

LGBTQIA+ folx may experience discrimination and prejudice in various aspects of their lives, such as in the workplace, school, or community. I can provide support and guidance on how to navigate these challenges and cope with the emotional impact.

Trauma:

I can help resolve and heal the impact of past or present adverse experiences and trauma on daily life.

Family conflict:

I can assist in navigating connections with relatives and minimizing negative effects caused by arguments over identity, coming out, or lifestyle choices.

Relationship difficulties:

I  can help couples stay connected, grounded, and aware of each other's needs and goals regardless of the nature of their romantic relationship.

Anxiety:

Whether someone has come out or is not interested or ready to do so, counseling can help manage anxiety that may arise from these situations.