LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender)
Even though we live in a society that is growing in acceptance and understanding of sexual orientation and gender identity issues, the LGBT community continues to face hardships that lead to depression, anxiety and emotional suffering.
A SAFE, AFFIRMING ENVIRONMENT
Our therapists strive to create a safe, affirming environment where these hardships can be explored and tools can be developed to work through them. LGBT individuals struggle to overcome bias/social stigma which can cause feelings of loneliness and depression. Many face rejection and abandonment within their families, leading to difficult decisions about coming out as they fear losing the support and acceptance of their loved ones. They also fear consequences in their workplace such as bullying, retaliation and being held back from advancement due to their sexual orientation. It’s difficult to know who to trust.
Coping with discrimination and oppression cause many LGBT persons to struggle with depression, anxiety, substance abuse and suicidal thinking. Trying to live an authentic life with all the difficult decisions and obstacles may feel overwhelming…. if not impossible. Without the proper support, encouragement and guidance, many find themselves becoming isolated and alone.
As therapist, we have heard stories of LGBT clients who have experienced rejection and shame by mental health professionals. This is heart-breaking as many have shared their struggle returning to a therapeutic relationship for fear of being shamed, marginalized or rejected. It is so important to find a truly accepting and loving helper when working through problems as a LGBT individual. We want to help create a safe and trusting relationship to help you reach your therapeutic goals and find the answers you are seeking.
COMMON STRUGGLES
- Depression
- Loneliness
- Chronic Stress
- Anxiety
- Social Isolation & Rejection
- Coming-Out Concerns
- Bullying
- Discrimination
- Addiction/Substance Abuse
- Rejection by Loved Ones
- Gender Transitions
- Self-Harming Behaviors
- Suicidal Thoughts/Suicide
- Relationship Problems
HOW LGBTQ THERAPY CAN HELP
Our therapist specialize in LGBT issues and will create a warm and loving space for individuals to explore the specific issues and difficulties they are experiencing. We use Cognitive Behavioral techniques to address issues with regulating emotions and irrational thoughts that can create stuck places and prevent growth and progress. All of our therapist practice from a Client Centered approach meaning that we are authentic, emotionally accessible and work to create a genuine relationship with every person we have the pleasure of working with. This approach makes it easy for clients to develop trust and learn about their own authentic and genuine self.
In therapy, you will often be encouraged to share your unique personal history and emotional experiences. You will be challenged to seek deeper understandings of self and to become aware of your own truth. Your therapist will ask questions to deepen your experience in therapy and challenge you to engage your experience to develop a more emotionally aware sense of self.
Therapist in Columbia, SC; Counselor in Columbia, SC; Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Postpartum, Trauma & PTSD, Couples and Marriage, Counseling in Columbia, Irmo, Chapin, and Lexington, SC.