What is LGBTQ+ counseling?
LGBTQIA+ 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 Bedford, NH 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. LGBTQ+ 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 Bedford, NH 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?
At Thriveworks, we employ a team of therapists, counselors, psychologists, and other mental health providers who care about the particular concerns and challenges of the LGBTQ+ community. No matter what your identity or concerns may be, we’re pleased to offer you our support.
To set up an appointment and address your individual needs, please call Thriveworks in Bedford, NH at (603) 255-5267 or book online to get started today.
When Is it Time To Seek Counseling?
Mental health providers work with LGBTQ+ individuals on a range of topics. These topics can include:
- Career-planning services
- Family communication
- Relationships and dating
- Child-rearing practices
- Abuse and trauma
- Depression and anxiety
- Safety and security
- Addiction and substance abuse
- Eating disorders and body dysmorphia
- Loss and grief counseling
- Coming out concerns
- Harassment and bullying
To get started, simply give us a call at Thriveworks in Bedford, NH. We’d love to have a session with you.
What Can LGBTQ+ Counseling Do for Me?
For the LGBTQ+ community, counseling or therapy can serve as a way to address a variety of systematic and personal issues. Some of the ways therapy can help you may include:
- Transcending gender roles: Even lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning individuals often fall back on heteronormative modes of thought when it comes to gender roles. Undoing years of social training can take time, but a licensed mental health professional can help you address any outstanding issues you have with preconceived gender roles.
- Discussing your gender identity with family: Many families — even supportive ones — can use guidance when it comes to accepting and understanding gender identity. Your therapist can use family or individual therapy to address everything from accidental misgendering to combating outdated gender expectations.
- Managing issues in the workplace: Navigating the workplace can often feel especially hazardous when you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community, especially if you don’t have supportive leadership. A counselor, therapist, or another mental health professional can teach you how to advocate for yourself and your rights while keeping your mental health your primary focus.
The exact issues you discuss and your exact treatment plan will depend on the type of counseling you seek and the specific issues you’re facing. Your provider may perform therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family therapy, or interpersonal therapy as part of your plan.
Begin LGBTQ+ Counseling at Thriveworks in Bedford, NH
LGBTQ+ issues are important to us at Thriveworks in Bedford, NH. If you’d like to connect with a passionate provider, give us a call today at (603) 255-5267 to schedule an appointment.
