• Queer folks face discrimination and self-judgment, causing inequitable barriers
• Misgendering and societal rejection can lead to severe anxiety and depression
• Identity affirmation and dealing with dissonance is a major focus in LGBTQ therapy, aiming to support clients in embracing what truly makes them happy
Queer Folks Have Unique Challenges
Life can contain many challenges for everyone, but for some those challenges can be exponentially more intense, frequent, or upsetting. Despite some recent shifts in the way much of society and culture view the LGBTQIA2+ community, those within it are still exposed to discrimination and oppression at highly toxic levels. LGBTQ online therapy can help.
These responses can cause trauma and damage that can feel unhealable, even if sometimes those harsh judgments are coming from yourself. We understand where you fit into our patriarchal and heteronormative world, and how that position can feel hopeless at times.
Even those with accepting and loving families are not immune to the hate and oppression from strangers, colleagues, and friends alike, making the outside world feel unsafe. We recognize the unique challenges faced by those who identify as LBGTQIAP2+ and offer an environment full of love and acceptance.
We take our positions as therapists and counselors seriously at Healing Collective Therapy, regardless of how we or our clients identify. Read on to learn more about how we support those in the LGBTQIA2+ community, their families, and their allies facing unique challenges.
Identity and "Feeling Seen"
Much of our LGBTQ online therapy involves working through how clients identify. We join you in the process of your own self-creation. It’s challenging to come to terms with an identity you may not feel comfortable with. You may be experiencing dissonance. We’re here to help.
Even for those who deeply understand their identity and are comfortable with it, living out one’s truth can sometimes include unexpected detours, changing self-beliefs, and profound shifts. Discovering your identity and coming to terms with it may be perceived as the most difficult part of the journey, but that isn’t always so. Living in a way that suits you and not others can be a challenge-especially for LGBTQIAP2+ folx.
Feelings of Unmanageable Stress & Emotional Fatigue
The negative reactions and cruelty, the sting of being misgendered or unseen, and the sense of threat you may receive can create a growing weight of trauma, shame, discomfort, and fear, all of which can conspire to make a ‘normal’ life near impossible. And with those high levels of stress and fatigue, you’re often left unable to enjoy or appreciate other areas of your life. Left unaddressed in some way, these emotions and responses can lead to anxiety and/or depression, especially if you find yourself with few safe spaces and safe people, or none at all.
Family Relationships
Although many people struggle with some aspects of family relationships, those in the LGBTQIA2+ community know many universally felt heartaches. Your family may not know how to best support you and your identity-even if they ‘accept’ your identity. It may be difficult to have these conversations. The shift in relationships in the family can cause tensions that didn’t previously exist, or compound one’s feelings of anxiety, stress, or a general sense of acceptance and belonging.
How does an LGBTQ therapist help?
Embarking on a therapeutic journey with us can help you shape the person you most deeply wish to be and come to terms with your unique self. We offer continuous support during this period of exploration and acceptance, in a safe environment free of judgment, as well as mindful of the unique challenges faced both personally and in the world.
With this healing environment in place, we believe true comfort and authenticity can bloom and flourish, which works to alleviate stress and fatigue in your life. Having a place where you can speak freely and feel accepted is a basic requirement not always available, which is why our LGBTQ online therapy is so beneficial. We want you to feel love and respite, respect, and welcome when you work with us.
Work with Healing Collective Therapy
Our therapists and counselors welcome you to begin your journey of healing, self-discovery, and self-love now. There’s never a bad time to start LGBTQ therapy online, and there are no rules or stipulations for whom we can help. We’re glad you took this first step.
Feel free to contact us anytime with questions about what we do and how we can help.
• Consider emotions, life events, relationships
• Weigh feelings, experiences, attachments
• Assess temperament, circumstances, social ties
READ MORE
• The workshops provide tools for better stress management, lifestyle balance, and proactive health care.
• Integration into company culture is crucial, highlighting the importance of employee participation and feedback.
• The outcome includes a healthier workforce, reduced job turnover, and a more supportive workplace environment.
READ MORE
• In the wake of a tragedy, leaders must communicate effectively, balancing professionalism with empathy.
• Providing access to mental health resources and flexible working options can support employees in their recovery.
• Continuous open communication, respecting confidentiality, helps build trust and supports the emotional health of the workforce.
READ MORE
• Mothers and daughters can improve their relationship by engaging in shared activities and making time for each other.
• Developing a best friend mentality with trust and open communication can deepen the bond.
• Handling conflicts wisely and fostering forgiveness are crucial for a resilient connection.
READ MORE
• Pressures from everyday interactions may cause unhelpful behaviors and conflicts within families.
• Through family therapy, members can learn to express themselves better and listen more effectively.
• Engaging in activities such as open communication sessions and art therapy allows for emotional expression and bonding.
READ MORE
• Family therapy models vary greatly, making it essential to choose one that aligns with your family's dynamics.
• Techniques such as narrative therapy and systemic therapy help families understand and resolve their issues.
• Engaging in the right type of family therapy can enhance communication and problem-solving within the family.
READ MORE
• In any close relationship, trust is crucial and must be actively developed and tested over time.
• Signs of a lack of trust include a partner's failure to admit errors, inconsistency in keeping promises, and a closed-off demeanor.
• Relationships thrive on safety and security, which are fostered by honest communication and mutual respect.
READ MORE
• Schedule an appointment individually or with your partner.
• Expect introductory questions about your relationship history.
• Be ready to discuss what you both hope to achieve through therapy.
READ MORE
• Relationship communication quotes highlight the power of conversation in building genuine connections.
• Humor, trust, and common goals are essential elements in maintaining a successful relationship.
• Effective communication involves understanding nonverbal cues and avoiding one-sided conversations.
READ MORE
• Engaging in therapy is an essential step for personal growth, yet many struggle with opening up about sensitive topics.
• Over 80% of people report some level of dishonesty in sessions, affecting the positive outcomes of therapy.
• People benefit from writing their thoughts, choosing a relaxing time to meet, and gradually discussing deeper issues.
READ MORE
• Essential elements of the first email to a therapist, such as self-introduction and stating the reason for reaching out.
• Advice on researching therapy types before contacting a therapist to ensure a suitable match.
• Procedures on how to ask about therapist's availability, fees, and possible referrals.
READ MORE
• Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) helps couples rebuild trust and secure attachment after infidelity.
• EFT techniques include identifying emotional response patterns, embracing discomfort, and stopping past projections.
• If EFT is unsuccessful, it may be healthier to consider letting go of the relationship.
READ MORE
• Emotional invalidation, such as telling someone they are overreacting, can undermine self-confidence and relationship security.
• Validating emotions with empathy builds relationships and supports emotional well-being.
• Practical methods for validation include making eye contact, actively listening, and consensual physical touch.
READ MORE
• Many people suffer from a lack of self-compassion, influenced by negative feedback during childhood.
• Self-criticism and shame are often reinforced by negative societal and cultural norms.
• Mindfulness and daily practice can help shift from self-criticism to self-compassion.
READ MORE
• Self-criticism is often a response to feeling threatened, with the brain activating fight or flight, as if facing real danger.
• Self-compassion can deactivate stress responses, fostering calm and a more self-love.
• Exercises in self-compassion include rephrasing internal dialogue and practicing kindness and understanding toward oneself.
READ MORE