Is there an advantage to seeing an LGBTQ-informed counselor?
At Thriveworks Blacksburg, we certainly believe there is. In many ways, people in the LGBTQ community are just like anyone else. In other ways, the LGBTQ community faces unique challenges that can hinder their ability to navigate emotional stress and traumas. What are some of those challenges? Well, they can include but are not limited to:
- rejection by friends/family
- societal oppression, homophobia, transphobia
- confusion with regards to gender roles/expectations
- increased risk for being a victim of person-on-person crimes
- higher suicide rates
Whether in spite of, or because of these things, the LGBTQ community faces mental health concerns just like the rest of the population. However, they experience more negative mental health outcomes, possibly because of these prejudices and biases. At Thriveworks Blacksburg, we offer a space that is welcoming, supportive, knowledgeable, and free from bias. We want to ensure a positive outcome for our LGBTQ clients.
One of our goals is to inspire and empower our clients, while helping them achieve their goals. While a person’s gender identity may not be a source of stress, LGBTQ people often find that the social stigma of living as a minority is stressful, and can lead to anxiety and other mental health issues. At Thriveworks Blacksburg LGBTQ counseling, we believe that whether one is seeking therapy for gender identity issues, or for other mental health concerns, it’s important to work with a qualified mental health professional who is LGBTQ informed.
What Issues Might LGBTQ People Face?
Society’s acceptance of diverse sexual orientations and gender identifications is progressing. But the fact remains that bullying, discrimination, and marginalization of LGBTQ people continues, sometimes even in one’s own family unfortunately. Add to that the usual daily stressors, such as relational complexities, workplace concerns, or low self-esteem, and the result is higher levels of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and other mental health concerns for LGBTQ people.
Seeking Therapy for LGBTQ-specific issues
Though many therapists may be qualified to help, sometimes LGBTQ clients feel more comfortable with an LGBTQ therapist, or at least an LGBTQ informed therapist. Knowing what challenges you may face as a member of the LGBTQ community and working with LGBTQ inclusive providers can help ensure more positive outcome.
Prejudice & Stigma
“Minority stress” within the LGBTQ community comes from a variety of factors including social stigma, discrimination, prejudice, denial of civil and human rights, abuse, harassment, victimization, social exclusion, and family rejection. Though not all people will face mental health challenges, discrimination or violence, many people report less mental well-being and satisfaction.
Your LGBTQ – Informed Therapist
Though more therapists today have positive attitudes toward the LGBTQ community, people still face unequal care due to a lack of training and/or understanding. Here at Thriveworks LGBTQ Counseling in Blacksburg, our providers have up-to-date knowledge of the unique needs of the LGBTQ community and experience with LGBT mental health issues.They will focus on more than just a your sexual orientation and/or gender identity. We want you to feel comfortable, welcome, supported, and cared for. You can be confident in talking about sensitive issues, your thoughts, and feelings. Here, you’ll receive acceptance, support, and encouragement to grow and ultimately, to THRIVE.
