What is LGBTQ+ counseling?
LGBTQ+ counseling is a type of queer affirmative counseling dedicated to assisting individuals and couples in navigating the intricate intersections of their sexual orientation, gender identity, and mental health, with a primary goal of fostering well-being, self-acceptance, and affirming a client's life experiences as a queer individual. Although not all LGBTQ+ individuals seek specialized counseling, a substantial number discover vital support and empathy within these inclusive and affirming therapeutic settings.
How does LGBTQ+ counseling work?
Thriveworks LGBTQ+ counseling in Alpharetta, GA typically begins with an initial assessment to understand your specific needs. LGBTQ+ counselors aim to create a safe, inclusive, and affirming environment for anyone within the LGBTQ+ community by encouraging self-acceptance and offering an understanding of your identity and experiences. The therapy addresses issues like coming out, discrimination, mental health challenges, and gender transition, and provides support for LGBTQ+ relationships.
Why is LGBTQ+ counseling important?
LGBTQ+ counseling is incredibly important because it can help queer individuals accept their identity, learn self-love, and give them important tools for facing the challenges of being a queer person in today's society, among many other benefits. LGBTQ+-affirming therapists can understand the unique perspective and experiences of queer individuals as they help them process past trauma, address family conflicts, treat issues with anxiety, and more.
Is LGBTQ+ counseling conducted in person or online?
Thriveworks LGBTQ+ counseling in Alpharetta, GA is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.
How long does LGBTQ+ counseling last?
The number of sessions for LGBTQ+ counseling depends on the specific needs and goals of the individual. It could encompass a relatively limited series of sessions or extend into a longer counseling plan. The precise quantity and duration of sessions typically emerge through collaborative discussion with the counselor, taking into account the client's progress and their therapeutic objectives.
Need more help deciding?
For those identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning or queer, there are often unique challenges involved in finding support while building and maintaining relationships with others. Although our culture has shifted to be more inclusive and accepting of LGBTQ individuals, discrimination and marginalization of this group still exists. Feeling “other” than those around us is a function of stigma; something most LGBTQ people will experience in their lifetime. It comes as no surprise that we find increased instances of anxiety, depression, addiction, and relational difficulties within the community.
In 1973, the American Psychological Association removed homosexuality from its manual of mental disorders. Today, we understand sexuality and gender as a spectrum – that is, we find many variations existing along a normal and healthy continuum of expression. Although therapists and psychiatrists have made substantial gains in depathologizing same sex preference, many remain inexperienced in working with members of the LGBTQ community. In what’s been termed a “dual stigma,” LGBTQ individuals may find it challenging to obtain mental health care from a provider who is informed and affirming of LGBTQ culture.
At Thriveworks, we strive to create an atmosphere of inclusion, where diversity is something to be celebrated. Our therapists use a holistic approach to join with our clients in their journey toward fulfillment. Are you ready to connect? Call (770) 284-9252 to schedule an appointment with one of our LGBTQ affirming therapists. There’s a safe space available for you here.
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