LGBTQIA+ Counselling

I specialise in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, and have had additional training in GSRD (Gender, Sex and Relationship Diverse) Therapy, through Pink Therapy.

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There are some common themes which can come up, which are directly related to being LGBTQIA+, and they're listed below. Sometimes, people don't want to talk about anything to do with their sexuality or gender identity, but they do want to have therapy in an LGBTQIA+ safe space. 

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"Coming out"
​Telling people about your sexuality and/or gender identity is often a nerve-racking experience, whether you look on it as 'coming out', or 'coming in' - inviting people to know you more fully. Perhaps you're worried that people will see you differently, or that you'll be treated badly. Whether it's to family, friends, a partner, in the workplace, or anywhere at all, being visibly and intentionally "out" can bring up mixed feelings. For those coming out in later life, this can be further complicated by having an existing relationship or family. 

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Dealing with homophobia / biphobia / transphobia / acephobia

Unfortunately, not everyone is open and welcoming to the LGBTQIA+ community. Perhaps you've experienced direct discrimination or bullying, or perhaps you're upset by stories in the news. Often, we have internalised shame about our identity which can make it hard to accept ourselves. 

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Family dynamics

It's a sad fact that many families are not fully accepting of their LGBTQIA+ members. This can take the form of making comments in your hearing which are hurtful, whether about you or other people, being physically or verbally abusive, cutting people out, or being outwardly accepting but still making you feel like a lesser member of the family.

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Relationship dynamics

Sometimes there is conflict within a relationship which is connected to sexuality or gender identity. Perhaps they aren't fully accepting of their partner's identity, for example if a bisexual person is in a relationship with a straight person, they may feel they have to hide their sexuality. A trans person may not feel comfortable fully expressing their gender identity. An ace person may find they feel pressured into sexual acts they aren't happy with. Or a lesbian or gay person may feel their partner isn't fully comfortable as they avoid being affectionate in public.

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If you'd like more information on the therapy I offer, or would like to schedule an intro call, please use the contact details below.