Health Allies counselors are trained and available to provide support to individuals and couples working through issues including, but not limited to, the following:
 

• The impacts of stigma (prejudice, discrimination and violence) including in the workplace, within bio/chosen family relationships, and within self.

• Negative or harmful previous experiences with therapists who were not LGBTQIA+

• affirming and/ or actively caused harm due to their bias against LGBTQIA+ persons

• Differentiating sexual orientation from their gender identity

• Challenging relationship dynamics experienced within LGBTQIA+ couples 

• Family of origin conflicts, ongoing concerns and traumas

• Incongruent values, norms and beliefs within lesbian, gay and bisexual members of
  racial and ethnic minority groups 

• Those who have experienced and continue to be affected by religious trauma

Folks who are affected by and harmed by diet culture

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How can therapy help?
 

Therapy can be a powerful tool for LGBTQIA2S+ people especially when working with a clinician who is Queer affirming or Queer themselves. Our clinicians are trained and available to support you in your journey to deeper self-reflection and furthering your identity development. 

Some of the ways therapy with an affirming provider can help includes:

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• Reducing anxiety and depression: LGBTQ+ people are more likely to experience anxiety and depression due to discrimination, stigma and the stress of navigating life as a marginalized person. Therapy can help them learn coping strategies and develop resilience in the face of these challenges in a variety of settings and in general, especially navigating this world as a Queer, Trans, or non-binary individual.

• Improving relationships: Many LGBTQ+ people struggle with relationship issues, whether they are related to romantic partners, family members or friends. Therapy can help people navigate their relationships more effectively, set and keep boundaries as well as communicate more clearly.

• Exploring gender identity: Gender identity is a complex and personal topic, and many LGBTQ+ people struggle to understand and express their gender in a way that feels authentic. Gender identity therapy can provide a safe space for someone to explore these feelings and work toward greater self-awareness and acceptance.

• Coping with discrimination: As we are seeing with the proliferation of anti-trans and anti-LGBTQ+ bills and violence against the community, discrimination and bigotry are still a reality for many LGBTQ+ people. Therapy can assist people in learning how to cope with these experiences, whether by developing more robust self-care practices, finding supportive communities or advocating for themselves.

• Support in coming out: Coming out can be a difficult and emotional process for many LGBTQ+ folks. An LGBT therapist can provide a space for someone to process their feelings, explore their options, and work through the challenges and barriers of coming out to friends, family and colleagues.

• Addressing excessive substance use: People in the LGBTQ+ community are at higher risk for substance use issues than the general population. Therapy can assist people in identifying and addressing the underlying issues, develop healthier coping strategies, and create a plan for recovery or implement harm reduction practices.

• Finding community: Many LGBTQ+ people feel isolated or alone, particularly if they live in rural or areas without a strong LGBTQ+ community. Therapy can help someone connect with a community who share their experiences and assist them in finding a sense of belonging and acceptance.

                                                                 


                                                              Types of therapy that can help LGBTQIA2S+ people

 

                                                                                     LGBT therapy may use a variety of techniques, depending on  

                                                                                                               an individual’s needs and  goals. 

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Gender identity therapy
 

This type of therapy can help folks explore and affirm their gender identity. It can be especially helpful for transgender and nonbinary folks who may be questioning their gender identity or considering medical interventions such as hormone therapy or surgery. An LGBTQIA2S+ counselor may use a variety of techniques, such as talk therapy, mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral therapy, to help the person gain clarity about their gender identity and develop coping skills to navigate any challenges that may arise.
 

Cognitive behavioral  therapy
 

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps a person identify and replace negative thought patterns and behaviors. This can be especially helpful for someone struggling with depression, anxiety or other mental health concerns.

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Mindfulness- based therapy 
 

Mindfulness-based therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on being present in the moment and cultivating a non-judgmental attitude toward thoughts and feelings. This can be especially helpful for individuals who are struggling with stress and anxiety.

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Health Allies believes in providing affirming care, and we have several therapists on staff who identify

as LGBTQIA2S+ who are here to support you on your healing journey.

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