Do you identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer or somewhere in between?

Homophobia, biphobia, transphobia and hate crimes contribute to the trauma, stigma and shame that people of the LGBTQ+ community experience and feel.  As a result, the LGBTQ+ community is twice as likely to experience a mental health condition such as trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use and/or suicidal thoughts.  And, specifically transgender individuals are nearly four times as likely as cisgender individuals (people whose gender identity corresponds with their assigned sex at birth) to experience a mental health condition.

Living in a cisgender and heteronormative society can be challenging, invalidating and even the most understanding and well-intentioned friends and family members often fail to understand how to support members of the LGBTQ+ community.

How can LGBTQ+ counseling help?

• Finding an “authentic” sense of self
• Processing transition
• Feelings of confusion, shame, guilt or abandonment
• Coming out to one’s family and friends
• Oppression, bullying and discrimination
• Exploring sexual orientation
• Exploring gender identity
• Self-esteem
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Suicidal/Self-Harm thoughts or actions

Whether you are coming out, transitioning or need help managing this period in your life, having a safe space, compassionate listener and life affirming counseling can empower one to flourish and accept their authentic self.