The world is constantly changing. We change too, sometimes in ways similar to the world and sometimes in ways opposing it. Each change that takes you a step closer to your true, authentic self is a beautiful step of courage and strength. However, sometimes that step is in the opposite direction of the trend of society.
For many people, identifying with the LGBTQ community means going against some preconceived societal norms. It can bring distress, opposition, and even mental health concerns. LGBTQ rights have come a long way in the last few years, but it still has a long way to go. If you have experienced pain as a member of the LGBTQ community, Thriveworks Franklin is here to help you fight your battles and grow into your true self. We can’t make your decisions or take the steps for you, but we can walk this path with you and provide education and support as you build the foundation for a great future. Call Thriveworks Franklin today at (617) 360-7210 to get the support you deserve.
What Topics Are Discussed in LBGTQ Counseling?
Counseling is as wide as the questions, pains, and issues it addresses. Counseling for those in the LGBTQ community is no different. Thriveworks Franklin is accepting of anything you bring into the counselling session. We serve to bring you closer to a happier, fulfilling life; that path will look a little differently for everyone.
It is a true but tragic fact that people who identify as LGBTQ have higher rates of depression, anxiety, and drug use. This is of no fault of your own, but an outcome of the opposing ideals in society today. Thriveworks Franklin has seen the hurt and scars living can bring, and we have seen people walk through some of the hardest times in their life. It might feel impossible right now, but there is always a way out. Thriveworks Franklin is here to help you get there.
Importantly, there is no issue that is too big or too small for Thriveworks Franklin counseling. Whatever you are dealing with, you deserve to find comfort and safety. We aren’t meant to walk through our battles alone, and Thriveworks Franklin is here to make sure you won’t have to.
Counseling for LGBTQ issues might include:
- Social anxiety
- Self-harm
- Depression
- Past abuse
- Eating disorders
- Family concerns
- Self esteem
- Issues in School or work
Thriveworks Franklin is looking forward to helping you heal and grow.
What Does LGBTQ Counseling Look Like?
There are two important phases of counseling- helping you survive, and helping you thrive. Survive goes beyond the basic human needs (although it does include that) and includes the basic emotional and mental rights of happiness and safety. Thriving, however, means giving you the room and strength to chase after your dreams. Thriveworks Franklin wants to help you do both.
There is a lot that goes into questioning your gender and/or sexuality, accepting it as part of who you are, building your life to reflect it, continuing to add to your identity, and then interacting with the world as your authentic self. There is no end to this cycle, as we are constantly growing beings, but sometimes it is more exhausting than others.
When you’re figuring out who you are and dealing with all the turmoil and inevitable pain that comes from that, it can feel like everything is spinning out of control. Even if you are rooted in your gender and sexuality, you’re still a human being and that means you’ll face challenges. Being a member of the LGBTQI community might mean you have to face more than the average person. Thriveworks Franklin is here to help you find the calm when everything feels like chaos.
In a counseling session, we might bring up:
- The aforementioned mental health concerns
- Passions and goals
- How to implement your strengths
- Where you find confidence and how to harness it
- Develop a plan to accomplish goals
- Coming-out to friends, family, and the world
- Overcoming any challenges that occur as you pursue your career
- Life transitions
Thriveworks Franklin believes in this quote:
“You don’t have a soul. You are a soul. You have a body.”
Counseling will always be rooted in nurturing the human soul. Sometimes that means working through a trauma or dealing with chronic depression. Other times, it means learning how to start a small business as a member of the LGBTQ community or how to come out to your friends at school.
Yes, this life is hard. And yes, identifying in the LGBTQ community can make it harder. But it can also make it more beautiful, more fulfilling, and more exciting Thriveworks Franklin is excited to help you take steps to your authentic self and overcome any barriers in your way of that. Please call us today at (617) 360-7210 and schedule an appointment with us.
