LGBTQ Therapist
Being part of the LGBTQ community is not always easy.
Individuals with a non-heteronormative sexual orientation or gender identity face unique struggles in their everyday lives. Whether it is the hardships created by unaccepting loved ones, ridicule from peers, or conflict with self-perception and confidence, it’s not uncommon for members of the LGBTQ community to face insane levels of emotional stress. Talking to an LGBTQ therapist could help you navigate these challenges and alleviate some of that stress.
MySpectrum offers support and counseling in Virginia, no matter where you live in the state. Our compassionate, professional services are accessible in-person as well as remotely via teletherapy options. So, whether you are near our home office in North Chesterfield, close to our Springfield office opening soon or elsewhere in Virginia, we offer comfortable, convenient therapy from LGBTQ-friendly therapists.
Reasons to Seek LGBTQ Therapy Online or In-Person
As a member of the LGBTQ community, the challenges can affect multiple facets of your life. You may need support or counseling if:
- You have difficulty coming out to your loved ones or are afraid to be yourself
- You struggle to cope with harassment or discrimination
- You face inequality when it comes to how you are treated by employers, loved ones, etc.
- You frequently deal with feelings of low self-worth, anxiety and/or depression
- You need help dealing with the stigma you face from society
Signs Someone in the LGBTQ Community Needs Counseling
While many people who are struggling recognize that they are facing regular emotional challenges, many don’t recognize just how much their challenges affect their emotional health. You or someone you love may need LGBTQ counseling if you experience:
- Fear and paranoia about self-expression (i.e., fear about disclosing sexual orientation or identity)
- Social anxiety or withdrawal (i.e., not wanting to be around others)
- Frequent bouts of depression or angst
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Difficulty living a normal life (e.g., going out, going to work, etc.)
Those in the LGBTQ community are also at a heightened risk of suicide. As many as 17% of LGBTQ adults attempt suicide, compared with 2.4% of the U.S. population. If you have contemplated suicide or you have an LGBTQ friend or loved one that you suspect has, it is critical to look for emotional support.
The Benefits of LGBTQ Counseling
Through LGBTQ therapy, individuals who have faced hardships, anxiety and challenges are exposed to a respectful, accepting environment where they are safe to communicate their feelings and express what they are dealing with in everyday life. Some of the benefits of such a comforting experience include:
- Developing a sense of self-affirmation and confidence in who they are
- Finding the ability to express thoughts about their unique lifestyle openly
- Curbing fear, anxiety and a low sense of self brought on by homophobia in the outside world
- Learning new coping skills to get through difficult aspects of being LGBTQ, such as non-accepting relatives
Support offered through MySpectrum is specifically tailored to meet the needs of each person. Each session is designed to be life-invigorating, without stigma and enjoyable. Furthermore, if individuals need identity counseling or LGBTQ couples counseling, the team at MySpectrum can help with these additional forms of therapy.
To find out how we can help with in-office and online therapy appointments, contact us for information.
MySpectrum Counseling & Coaching
MySpectrum Counseling & Coaching is a trusted mental-health provider in North Chesterfield, VA with 15+ years of clinical experience helping children, teens, and adults thrive. Our licensed team — LPC, LCSW, LMFT — holds advanced certifications in CBT, DBT, Trauma-Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and Substance Use Treatment. We are HIPAA-compliant, insured, and credentialed with major health plans across Virginia.
MySpectrum Counselling & Coaching is a 2023 Inc. 5000 “fast-growing business” honoree (Rank #244 nationally / #1 in Richmond), a recognition featured in the September 2023 issue of Inc.
As a member of ChamberRVA, we follow high standards of accountability, community engagement, and ethics.