Affirmative Therapy for LGBTQIA+ People
What is affirmative therapy?
Affirmative therapy is a type of psychotherapy used to validate and advocate for the needs of sexual and gender minority clients. It’s an approach to therapy that embraces a positive view of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex and Asexual (LGBTQIA+) identities and relationships, and addresses the negative influences that homophobia, transphobia, and heterosexism have on the lives of LGBTQIA clients.
What do affirming therapists do?
A queer-affirming therapist understands that identity as a sexual or gender minority can affect a client’s experience in the world. They know that being LGBTQIA+ is not a mental health disorder, and they don’t attribute every psychological or social stressor to a client’s identity. Affirming therapists normalize questions around gender, sex, and sexual/effectual orientation. Affirming therapists help clients understand and break down internalized oppression while also continually working on their own “-isms''. One of the most important roles of any therapist is to create a container, or safe space where clients are supported as they talk about their feelings, hopes, and fears confidentially and without judgment.
Should I work with a queer-affirming therapist?
Some find working with queer-affirming or queer-friendly therapists to be helpful, especially if they’re looking for support with combating micro-agressions, stigma, etc. Others may be okay working with a therapist who does not identify as queer-affirming or as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. It’s up to the individual to decide what works best for them. Clients always have the right to talk with therapists about any concerns, ask questions, or change their minds.
Some common topics discussed in therapy include:
Gender, sexual and/or effectual identity exploration
Coming out/disclosure (at work, with family, etc.)
Assertiveness training
Relationship issues
Remember, not all LGBTQIA+ clients seek therapy for identity-related issues. They may just simply want to be in a space that feels comfortable and supporting.
Are you an affirming therapist? Do you work with LGBTQIA+ people?
Yes! I’m a proud, queer-affirming and queer-identified therapist! I know how challenging it can be to find healthcare and other services that feel safe, confidential and validating. As an affirming therapist, I help people to come to a consensual, comfortable, and self-accepting place with their sexual, effectual and/or gender identity - no matter where they are in the process. I also provide letters of support for clients seeking gender-affirming medical care. My work in LGBTQ health advocacy includes facilitating a support group for Queer and Trans People of Color, attending the Philadelphia Trans Wellness Conference professional track, and being a member of the Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network.
I offer both short and long term therapy options for DC and NC residents, and I'm an ally for those of all sexualities, genders, and races. View my bio to learn more about my specialities. You can book an appointment with me through the contact page.
