Being queer myself, I get a lot of inquiries from individuals, couples and colleagues looking for a queer therapist and I really understand the reasons behind this significant need for clients.
As lesbian gay bisexual transgender or queer individuals, it HAS and is still for many, not safe to live and love publicly as ourselves. Growing up, WE often learn how to hide and take on false identities. Many of us suffer post traumatic stress syndrome, or PTSD, from the constant pressure, hatred and anxiety experienced and feeling conflicted over who we are and with no one to talk to about it.
And while coming to terms with our sexual orientation, we have shitty or nonexistent sex education, mentor ship from our parents on being in relationships and the right of passage of coming out is NOT honored. It wasn’t so long ago that we didn’t even have terms for LGBTQ identities - so it wasn’t discussed, yet once language was created, it gave society license to even more fully criminalized, oppressed, attack and discount us.
Having safe spaces and safe therapeutic relationships is very new. In therapy as an adult, we get a chance to become more authentic, explore ourselves and get the guidance we needed in our youth. Today, many of us who identify as LGBTQ seek out therapists who we believe will understand our identity, our spirit and our diverse communities. I think it’s also crucial that the therapist is queer affirmative and has the education and attunement to help us work through our own internalized oppression, homophobia or transphobia.
I’m sure you can imagine someone you connect with, someone where there is ease, laughter or comfort. In therapy, the relationship between therapist and client is everything. A queer therapist who celebrates and supports you in becoming your healthiest and most vibrant version of yourself is paramount. Queer therapists often get us on the most intimate of levels and understand our feelings and needs. They are also connected to community resources: from organizations to groups to events and holidays.
Whether coming out, working through shame, traumas or improving relationships, there is a therapist out there that could be a fabulous fit to help you get to a better place in your life. If you or someone you know needs to be connected to a queer therapist, don’t hesitate to reach out. I look forward to talking with you.