
People within the LGBTQIA+ community share many things in common outside of sexuality and identity. Many seek therapy for things like self-esteem concerns, anxiety, relationship issues, and more. Regardless of the reason why someone might seek counseling, it is important that their therapist will be accepting and supportive.
What is LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapy?
LGBTQIA + Affirmative Therapy was developed to address the unique emotional and mental health needs of members of the LGBTQIA+ community. This therapy describes the acknowledgment and acceptance of an individual’s identity and sexual orientation. Therapists who offer affirmative therapy, provide their LGBTQIA + clients a safe space. In that safe space they develop a healthy sense of self and strengthen their voice.
Tenets Of LGBTQ + Affirmative Therapy
LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapy can help someone challenged with mental health issues. It can help navigate their life and choices in a more thoughtful and meaningful way. Here are some of the main tenets of LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapy:
Safe Spaces
The most important aspect of effective therapy is creating a safe space. In that safe space the client can explore their emotions and heal any trauma. In LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapy, individuals are welcomed without any judgment or preconceived notions.
Finding a True Ally
Once a safe space and genuine trust have been established an alliance can be fostered, where the LGBTQIA+ individual feels they are supported and celebrated.
What is the Best Way to Find an LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Therapist?
If you would like to work with a trained LGBTQ + Affirmative therapist, there are several steps you can take to find one:
- Ask a friend or acquaintance for a referral
- As for a referral from a well-known LGBTQ + organization
- Do a Google search specifically using the term LGBTQ + Affirmative Therapy
Make a list of two to three therapists who seem qualified to help you with your unique issues. Secondly, feel free to call them to get a sense of their personality. A good therapist will be happy to speak with you to make sure your questions are answered and you feel comfortable moving forward.
If you are experiencing a mental health issue and would like to work with an LGBTQ + Affirmative therapist, please reach out to our intake Coordinator. We offer telehealth sessions and are happy to discuss how I may be able to help.
SOURCES:
- https://www.claritytherapynyc.com/lgbtqia-affirmative-therapy/
- https://psychcentral.com/blog/sex/2014/04/understanding-lgbtq-affirmative-psychotherapy#1
- https://www.goodtherapy.org/learn-about-therapy/issues/lgbt-issues
- https://www.ndsu.edu/fileadmin/hdfs/documents/misc/Affirmative_therapy_handout.pdf