LGBTQ is short for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer – a term meant to cover a range of ways people identify themselves. It is much more complex than simply one’s gender identity or sexual orientation; the way in which a person feels on the inside or expresses themselves on the outside can be fluid. LGBTQ individuals often need help sorting it all out and navigating to where they are most happy.
LGBTQ Youth Therapy
There is perhaps no more difficult time in one’s life than being an LGBTQ youth. An LGBTQ child can find themselves struggling to fit into a social framework with little support from people like themselves. Dealing with gender identity, sexual orientation and other LGBTQ issues can create a stressful and confusing situation that neither the LGBTQ youth, nor their parents, know how to handle. A trained LGBTQ therapist can help guide an LGBTQ youth down the path of self-discovery and a successful transition into adulthood. If you have an LGBTQ child in need of therapy, we’re here to help.
LGBTQ Therapy for Adults
Adults too can find themselves struggling to cope in a world seemingly designed around a binary identity system. LGBTQ counseling with a trained and experienced therapist is often the best solution for mental health and happiness. LGBTQ adults can find themselves facing thoughts and feelings new to them for the first time in their life and might not have an LGBTQ community, friends or family to turn to. Or seasoned LGBTQ veterans might still be struggling with gender dysmorphia, social inequality, or simply trying to find happiness in general – a struggle that spans both the LGBTQ and non-LGBTQ community.
Therapy Approach
LGBTQ counseling comes in many forms, depending on the needs of the individual. Issues with an LGBTQ youth coming to terms with sexual orientation is going to be different from an LGBTQ adult who wants counseling for substance abuse. Either way, anxiety and depression can be the outcome if not treated properly.
People’s lives and upbringing are complex, there isn’t always an easy answer to why we feel and act the way we do. At Thriveworks Columbus, we understand that everyone’s story is different and approach everyone we help with the respect and dignity they deserve. There is no right or wrong way to handle life’s challenges, but one thing we can be sure of is trying to do it on your own is not the answer. Whether you have strong support from the LGBTQ community, friends and family – or are currently facing your struggles alone, give us the opportunity to help you through this journey called life.
If you or someone you know in the Columbus, OH (Polaris) area is struggling with mental health or simply to find answers to some of life’s questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our warm and caring staff.
