Where To Find Affirming Online LGBT Counseling That Is Affordable
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Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer or questioning (LGBTQ+) individuals often experience minority stress due to stigma, prejudice, heteronormativity, rejection, discrimination, and internalized homophobia. As a result of these stressors, LGBTQ+ individuals are 2.5 times more likely to experience mental health challenges, like depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders, than cisgender heterosexual individuals.
If you’re an LGBTQ+ youth or young adult in crisis, reach out to The Trevor Project hotline by calling 1-866-488-7386 or texting “START” to 678-678. You can also use their online chat.
LGBTQ+ affirmative counselors have experience helping people navigate minority stress, often approaching sessions with a positive, respectful, and affirming viewpoint for people with all gender identities and sexual orientations. If you’re interested in meeting with an affirming professional, it may be helpful to know the best places to find them and how they can provide you with counseling services that fit your needs. Below, we’re going to discuss the importance of mental health care for those in the LGBTQ+ (also called the LGBTQIA) community and outline options for connecting with a mental health provider through virtual counseling.
Why is LGBTQIA+ therapy needed
Stigma and discrimination can be challenging for anyone who does not identify as cisgender and heterosexual. While some LGBTQ+ individuals experience a strong sense of pride in their identity, heteronormativity can put members of this community at a higher risk of mental illness and mental health issues. Overall, members of the this community are more than twice as likely as heterosexual individuals to have mental health conditions in their lifetime, and transgender people are almost four times as likely to experience a mental health condition than cisgender individuals.
Common challenges impacting mental health
Challenges faced by individuals in the LGBTQ+ community may include:
- The exploration of gender identity and sexual orientation
- Complications from coming out
- Fear of rejection
- Rejection from social support due to one’s LGBT+ identity
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Substance misuse
- Gender dysphoria
- Traumatic experiences
- Shame
- Mental and physical health discrimination
- Deadnaming and other forms of harassment
- Suicidal thoughts and self-harm
- Intersectional challenges for those who are LGBTQ+ and BIPOC, individuals with a physical disability, religious minorities, or low socioeconomic status
The need for personalized online LGBTQ counseling
Some people may not be comfortable addressing the above topics with mental health professionals in person. To alleviate these potential concerns, online counseling platforms allow clients to connect with mental health practitioners from the comfort of home. Compared to in-person counseling, virtual counseling services can provide a more convenient and comfortable way for those in this community to utilize mental health services. With online counseling, you can work with one of thousands of licensed counselors through video call, voice call, or in-app messaging. You can also contact your counselor anytime through most online counseling platforms. So, if you forgot to mention something during a counseling session, or you want to ask a question about a related topic, you can send them a message, and they’ll typically respond within 24 hours.
Using online LGBTQ counseling to find the right therapist
Another benefit of online counseling is its ability to connect clients with a greater number of mental health providers than may otherwise be available. Unlike most forms of traditional in-person counseling, virtual counseling platforms work with a team of qualified professionals from across the US (and even outside of the country). Typically, online counseling platforms like BetterHelp provide questionnaires that ask each client about their goals, preferences regarding a mental health professional, and desire to receive care related to personal concerns. Using this information, they can connect each client with the right mental health provider for them.
Addressing a variety of mental health needs with online therapy services
Virtual counseling is also a cost-effective form of mental health care. For example, BetterHelp memberships start at $65 per week (based on factors such as your location, referral source, preferences, counselor availability and any applicable discounts or promotions that might apply) to have sessions with a qualified counselor. These costs are often less than those of in-person counseling through a one-on-one practice (which can average $100-200 per session), even with insurance coverage.
Virtual counseling can help you address a range of life challenges and mental health concerns. Licensed virtual counselors can provide guidance on relationship issues, symptoms of a mental health disorder, career difficulties, and other challenges. Many online platforms—such as the Gay Therapy Center—provide both individual counseling and relationship counseling. And through some virtual services, clients can attend group counseling sessions.
There are, however, some situations in which online counseling may not be the right option for you. With certain mental health conditions—like schizophrenia or severe substance use disorder—in-person treatment is typically recommended. Additionally, many virtual counseling platforms do not provide psychiatric medication management or diagnoses.
Minority stress and affirming care
For some people in the LGBTQ+ community, counseling can be a useful resource for managing challenges and receiving positive affirmation and support. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) states that LGBTQI-inclusive mental health providers can help clients achieve improved mental health outcomes.
In addition, researchers have found that affirming care can build self-esteem and improve overall quality of life. In contrast, a lack of affirming care can result in adverse outcomes, including depression, homelessness, rejection, and suicide.
What is LGBTQIA+ counseling?
LGBT affirmative counselors may do the following to better support their clients when providing mental health care:
- Meet a variety of core competencies for LGBTQ+ counseling
- Maintain an up-to-date list of local LGBTQ+ resources and services
- Question heteronormative assumptions
- Provide LGBTQ+-friendly reading materials, paperwork, and other resources
- Challenge biases related to sexual orientation or gender identity
- Respect the diversity of LGBTQ+ individuals
- Use terminology correctly
- Use the clients’ pronouns and names
Affirmative counseling can be used for clients of any age. Counselors provide verbal and non-verbal forms of support to discover each client’s goals for counseling regarding their identity.
Finding an LGBTQIA+ affirming counselor or therapist
It can be difficult to find a therapist that meets your needs, but a trusted resource may be able to provide you with recommendations for finding a therapist. Consider the following resources for finding an affirming therapist.
Friends and family
If you have friends, colleagues, or family members who are in the queer community, you might choose to ask them if they have recommendations. Some individuals may have had prior experience with an affirming and kind provider.
Healthcare professionals
If you have a positive relationship with your healthcare provider, you might ask for recommendations for affirming therapy. In addition, if you’re working with a provider for gender-affirming surgery, they may ask you to meet with a therapist first to receive a recommendation. In these cases, the provider may help you find a therapist or refer you to someone they know.
In-person counseling at community centers
Local centers often have licensed affirmative therapists available onsite to provide therapy services or the ability to provide recommendations for local mental health resources.
Online LGBT counseling directories
There are several virtual resources, including the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) referral directory, the GLBT National Help Center’s LGBT Near Me guide for local resources, the National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network’s Mental Health Directory, and other virtual search tools.
If you do not have health insurance, you cannot afford a co-pay, or if the therapist you want to see doesn’t accept your insurance, you may reach out to them and ask whether they use a sliding scale or can offer discounts to work with you. You may also be able to find free or more affordable affirming therapy, support groups, and other resources from your local community center or various national organizations.
Online counseling and online therapy services for LGBTQ+ related mental health concerns
For individuals living outside of major cities, without insurance, or with demanding schedules, in-person affirming therapy may be more challenging to find. In these cases, virtual counseling could be more reachable and affordable. While it can take weeks or months to establish care with an in-person therapist, people seeking LGBTQ+-affirming therapy through platforms like BetterHelp are often matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 48 hours.
Effectiveness of virtual therapy in supporting LGBTQ+ community needs
In addition to increasing affirming therapy, virtual therapy can be effective for a wide range of mental health conditions. A 2017 review of 373 peer-reviewed studies found that internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) effectively addressed many conditions, including depression and anxiety disorders, which are common among people who identify as LGBTQ+. A 2013 study by the University of Zurich found that internet-based psychotherapy was more effective than in-person therapy at reducing depression symptoms in the medium term.
Takeaway
How do I find an LGBTQIA+ therapist?
Several therapy resources are available for individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community, both online and locally. GLMA (previously known as The Gay and Lesbian Medical Association), The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), and The Trevor Project offer directories where you can find a quality therapist by location, specialty, and the therapist’s identity.
If you cannot attend in-person therapy, online therapy platforms like BetterHelp also offer therapy services tailored to the LGBTQIA+ community. With online therapy, you can chat with licensed therapists via online messaging, live video sessions, text, or by phone. You might also ask friends, support groups, or community organizations like your local LGBTQIA+ center for recommendations. You can find LGBTQIA+ centers in your area through CenterLink, The Movement Advancement Project (MAP), and imi guide.
What is LGBTQIA+ counseling?
LGBTQIA+ counseling refers to a specialized type of mental health treatment that addresses the unique needs and experiences of people in the LGBTQIA+ community. Individuals can participate in individual LGBTQIA+ sessions or group therapy facilitated by individuals with specialized training in providing support for LGBTQ folks and other gender-nonconforming individuals. LGBTQ-informed family therapy and couples counseling may also help loved ones navigate the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals together.
Why is LGBTQ counseling important?
LGBTQ+ counseling is crucial because it provides a safe, affirming space for individuals who may face unique challenges compared to their heterosexual peers related to sexual orientation and gender identity. Here are some key reasons why LGBTQ counseling is essential:
It explicitly addresses minority stress.
Being a member of the LGBTQIA+ community is not a mental health condition; however, people in the community often experience "minority stress” due to the prejudice, discrimination, and societal stigma many face. Such issues can significantly contribute to increased instances of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. Counseling allows individuals to process these experiences and build resilience against external stressors.
It helps combat isolation.
Some individuals face rejection from family, friends, or their community—which can lead to feelings of shame, isolation, and low self-worth. Counseling offers support, helps foster self-acceptance, and can aid in building supportive social networks.
It supports identity exploration.
Exploring and understanding sexual and gender identities is an integral part of personal development and better mental health for many LGBTQ individuals. A counselor knowledgeable in these issues can offer informed, nonjudgmental guidance and help with issues like coming out, understanding identity, and navigating potentially complex social dynamics.
It improves mental health outcomes.
LGBTQ individuals have higher rates of mental health issues due to the stressors of more discrimination and societal bias. LGBTQ-affirming counseling can lower these risks, leading to better mental health and overall well-being by providing coping strategies and fostering self-empowerment.
It helps individuals navigate challenges in relationships and other areas
Many LGBTQ people face unique challenges in relationships, both romantic and platonic. Counseling can help with coming out to loved ones, managing family relationships, and developing healthy partnerships.
It increases access to health resources.
LGBTQ-affirming counselors are often familiar with resources and support systems designed explicitly for LGBTQ individuals, such as community groups, medical services, and housing resources. They can refer clients to these networks for additional support.
Why is LGBTQ inclusion important?
LGBTQ inclusion is important because it promotes fairness, safety, and equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Inclusive environments may reduce the stress, anxiety, and depression that can arise from discrimination and social exclusion. LGBTQ-inclusive policies help reduce bullying, harassment, and violence, especially in places like schools, workplaces, and public spaces. When institutions openly support LGBTQ people, it sends a message that discrimination and hostility will not be tolerated.
Inclusive schools, communities, and families give LGBTQ youth the chance to develop a positive self-image, reduce feelings of isolation, and improve self-esteem. LGBTQ-inclusive workplaces are often more innovative and productive and attract diverse talent. Employees are more likely to be engaged and loyal in environments that value diversity and treat them respectfully, leading to better performance and satisfaction.
On a broader scope, when all community members feel valued, they become stronger, more cohesive, and more resilient. Including LGBTQ people signals a commitment to universal human rights, setting a positive example that can influence broader social attitudes toward acceptance and respect.
How does gender affect counseling?
Gender’s role in counseling is multifaceted, influencing how clients experience mental health issues, treatment approaches, and counselor interaction. Here are just a few examples of how gender impacts the counseling process:
It shapes personal experiences and social expectations.
Gender often influences how individuals are socialized, affecting their roles, behaviors, and societal expectations. These factors can contribute to specific mental health challenges and coping styles. For example, men may be socialized to suppress emotions, while women might be socialized to prioritize others' needs over their own, affecting how they approach counseling.
It may influence mental health risks and patterns.
Gender can affect the types of mental health issues individuals are more likely to experience. For instance, studies reveal that women are at higher risk for depression and anxiety, while men have higher rates of substance use and antisocial disorders. Non-binary, queer, and trans people often face unique stressors, including discrimination, gender dysphoria, and minority stress, which can lead to specific mental health risks.
It can affect an individual’s likelihood of seeking help
Men are generally less likely than women to seek help for mental health issues, often due to societal expectations around masculinity and emotional vulnerability. Gender-sensitive counseling can address these barriers and create a more supportive environment that encourages all clients to seek help.
It often addresses gender-based trauma and discrimination.
Many clients experience trauma or stress due to gender-based violence, discrimination, or harassment. Women, LGBTQ individuals, and gender-nonconforming people may be disproportionately affected by gender-related issues such as sexual violence, workplace discrimination, and societal stigma. Counseling that acknowledges these experiences can be more effective in addressing their mental health impacts.
It may impact the therapeutic relationship.
Clients' perceptions of gender can impact their comfort level and trust in a counselor, sometimes affecting the therapeutic relationship. For instance, a woman who has experienced trauma inflicted by a man may feel safer with a female counselor. Similarly, a transgender client may feel more understood by a counselor who is experienced with gender diversity.
It offers a safe space for gender non-conforming individuals
For clients exploring or expressing gender diversity, gender-affirming therapy can be transformative. It respects clients’ gender identities, supports self-acceptance, and provides a welcoming environment for discussing issues like gender dysphoria, transitioning, or navigating social and family dynamics around gender.
What is LGBTQ-affirming counseling?
LGBTQ-affirming counseling, also known as affirmative therapy, is a type of therapy that focuses on assisting and supporting individuals in navigating the complex and sometimes difficult issues faced by people in the LGBTQ community.
How do you become an LGBTQ affirmative therapist?
Becoming a gender-affirming therapist requires a combination of experience and education about LGBTQ+ identities, experiences, and challenges. Through courses and certification programs, you can stay updated on research, literature, and resources focused on LGBTQ+ mental health (continuing education opportunities are available through online video sessions and materials as well as in person). You can also gain supervised clinical experience by shadowing a mentor trained in gender-affirmative care.
Why should everyone go to counseling?
Counseling can benefit everyone, regardless of background, age, gender identity, or mental health status. Counseling can help you:
Gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors
Learn to cope with daily stressors and challenging emotions effectively
Improve communication, conflict resolution, and active listening skills
Navigate major life changes
Build emotional resilience
Examine patterns in your relationships
Prevent the development of mental health conditions
Process grief, trauma, or loss
Achieve personal and professional goals
Foster self-compassion and acceptance
How effective is counseling?
Counseling is widely regarded as effective in improving mental health and overall well-being; however, its effectiveness depends on several factors, including the type of therapy, the client's needs, and the quality of the therapeutic relationship. Here’s a breakdown of how effective counseling can be, supported by research findings:
Research consistently shows that counseling can significantly reduce symptoms of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress. Studies find that around 75% of people who enter therapy report improvement in their mental health after treatment.
Counseling often leads to long-term positive changes in how individuals cope with future challenges, even after therapy ends. Clients develop skills and resilience that improve their quality of life, self-confidence, and emotional health over time.
Beyond symptom relief, counseling is also effective for self-exploration, improving communication skills, and promoting personal growth. These benefits can help clients thrive in many areas of life, from relationships to career goals.
Counseling has proven beneficial for people of all ages, including children, adolescents, adults, and older people. Research shows therapy can positively impact individuals from diverse backgrounds and adapt to unique cultural or contextual needs.
Counseling can indirectly improve physical health by reducing stress, promoting healthy coping strategies, and increasing self-care behaviors. As mental health improves, people often report better physical health, quality of sleep, and overall life satisfaction.
What is the importance of LGBTQ centers?
LGBTQ centers are essential to the community for several reasons. They are deeply committed to advocating for the rights and equality of lesbian, gay, binary, queer, trans people, and other types of gender expression. LGBTQ+ centers provide a haven where people can express their identities without fear of judgment or violence and build community by bringing together people who share similar experiences and challenges.
The centers also offer various free and affordable services for individuals to receive support. For example, some centers help individuals locate insurance plans that cover gender-affirming procedures and connect them with healthcare services for various issues common to the community. Some centers offer youth programs, mental health counseling, support groups, educational resources, and more.
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