Supportive And Affirmative Mental Health Care: How To Find An LGBTQ Therapist

Finding acceptance and support

For the LGBTQ+ community, finding acceptance and support can sometimes be a challenge. Whether you have worries about facing discrimination or confronting challenges related to your sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, you may experience unique challenges impacting your mental health and well-being that may be best addressed with someone with training or experience in LGBTQ+ issues. 

Some therapists specialize in providing care for the LGBTQ+ community. However, finding an affirmative therapist may not always be straightforward, particularly for those in populations that may be less accepting or understanding of marginalized identities. Below is a guide for locating a therapist to help you improve your mental health regarding your identity.

What is LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy?

LGBTQ-affirmative therapy, also known as LGBT-affirmative psychotherapy or affirmative counseling, is a form of therapy specifically tailored to the unique mental health needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer or questioning (LGBTQ+) individuals. Affirmative counseling aims to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their experiences and overcome challenges related to their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

Affirmative therapy is based on findings in recent years that these individuals face unique challenges related to societal prejudice, discrimination, and stigma, which can impact their mental health and well-being. This type of counseling aims to provide clients who identify with the LGBTQ community with support, validation, and understanding. It can help them develop coping strategies and skills to navigate challenges, as well as address any mental health issues arising from them. 

An emphasis on respect

Affirmative counseling also emphasizes the importance of respecting and affirming an individual's sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression within and outside of this community. Professionals who provide affirmative counseling often have specialized expertise about LGBTQ issues and understand how societal attitudes and discrimination can impact a person's mental health. These mental health professionals can create a non-judgmental space for clients to discuss individual experiences and develop a positive sense of self and identity.

How does mental health therapy for LBGTQ+ work?

Those experiencing challenges related to their gender identity may benefit from gender-affirming therapy. In gender-affirming therapy, LGBTQ-friendly therapists can provide therapy services, support, and guidance to help transgender and gender non-conforming (TGNC) people feel affirmed in their gender identity. 

This type of counseling seeks to create a safe and supportive environment for TGNC individuals to explore their gender identity. A gender-affirming mental health professional may help people determine whether they are transgender, non-binary, or gender diverse without imposing bias upon a client. They might also help clients overcome some of the fears and daunting tasks they encounter related to their gender identity. They might use strategies like providing tools and mental health resources to overcome trauma associated with transphobic messaging, societal stigma, and psychological discomfort that often accompanies gender dysphoria. 

A counselor may also help TNGC clients explore the benefits and drawbacks of medical transition. Some counselors assist clients by writing a letter of support for insurers and surgeons if their client decides to medically transition via hormone therapy or gender-affirming surgery. 

Benefits and efficacy of counseling 

Evidence-based, affirming counseling can provide mental health support and guidance for people of any age, background, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Talk therapy has been proven helpful for those experiencing mental health challenges related to the stigma they face as LGBTQ individuals. 

Some benefits of counseling for LGBTQ+ issues include:

Validation of queer individuals’ feelings and identity

Counseling can provide a supportive space for individuals to explore their identity, express feelings, and feel validated and accepted for who they are on their journey to self-understanding and acceptance.

Coping with the discrimination and stigma

Counseling can help individuals struggling with discrimination, stigma, and other challenges that may arise due to their identity develop coping skills and strategies. It may also help cultivate coping strategies for common mental health challenges within this community such as substance abuse, suicidal ideation, and mood disorders.

Improved mental health for LGBTQ+ individuals

LGBTQ-affirming counseling may also help individuals manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions that could be impacting overall well-being. Because people in this community are at risk of severe mental health issues, mental health professionals may receive specific training in LGBT counseling.

Positive self-image and acceptance

Counseling can help individuals develop a positive self-image and sense of self-worth, which may benefit those who have experienced rejection or discrimination due to gender identity or sexuality.

Understanding and support for families

Therapy can support individuals and their families as they navigate any challenge or experience related to questioning their identity, coming out, and transitioning.

Finding an LGBTQIA+ counselor

Finding the right therapist for your needs requires connecting with a professional who is knowledgeable and accepting of important issues within the LGBTQ community. As a queer individual, you can often choose between attending counseling in person or online. Each mode has unique benefits and limitations, and it may be worth considering your goals before deciding which is right for you. 

Finding an in-person professional

In some major metropolitan areas, it may be possible to seek an LGBT therapist nearby by performing an online search or looking in an online directory related to your insurance provider. A queer organization or professional network may also be able to help you find help in your area. In addition, you may consider soliciting recommendations from trusted individuals in your community who have attended counseling.

In-person counseling could be beneficial if you live with others and prefer the added convenience of working with counselors at their offices. It may also help you establish a personal connection with your counselors, which can be helpful when exploring sensitive topics. Additionally, in-person sessions can provide a sense of structure and routine, helping individuals experiencing isolation or anxiety who may benefit from talking about their emotions and experiences.

However, finding an affirmative therapist who is a good fit for your needs may be challenging for some. For example, there might not be a safe environment for those who live in areas that are not as accepting or informed about the LGBTQIA+ community. In these cases, in-person counseling may not be realistic. 

Online support with mental health professionals

No matter where you live, you may be able to connect with an affirmative therapist today through an online platform like BetterHelp. These platforms are crucial resources for the community and may make it easier to find a licensed professional who relates to your values and understands the unique challenges faced by this community. 

Online therapy vs in-person therapy

Research has repeatedly proven that online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy in treating various mental health conditions and challenges. More specifically, research suggests that online affirmative cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can benefit LGBTQ+ youth and young adults by mitigating mental health risks associated with this population and empowering them with coping skills and a stronger sense of self-worth.  

Benefits of an online LGBTQ therapist

If you find it difficult to open up about your experiences as part of the LGBTQ+ community in an unfamiliar space, you may prefer to attend counseling from the comfort of your home or another safe space. With internet-based treatment, you can often state your preference for an LGBTQ+ therapist, allowing you to match with someone in your community. 

Different online counseling platforms

In addition to individual video call sessions, online counseling may include added services such as in-app messaging, online worksheets, and webinars. Some online platforms offer group sessions, couples counseling, or family treatment. There may be a variety of group therapy sessions available, including those that enable you to connect with other individuals in your community. Some clients might find that these additional services help them get more value out of their time. 

Finding an LGBTQ therapist who can relate to gender identity

Finding a therapist with whom you can feel comfortable opening up about your life experiences can be essential. For example, speaking with someone who relates to your identity, faith, or cultural background might feel more natural. Some counselors may also discuss details about their clinical experience and areas of specialization to help potential clients make informed decisions. 

When you start treatment, your counselor is likely to ask questions to get to know you. They may allow you to ask questions to ensure you have found a match. These questions might include the following: 

• Have you undergone training for LGBTQ-related issues?
• Can you tell me more about your experience treating clients who talk about their identity?
• What evidence-based treatments do you offer?

If you have questions about your sexual identity or gender orientation, try to find a therapist with experience helping clients who aren't sure about their identity. If you did not find your therapist through a trusted source or platform, consider doing your own research to find out more. 

Understanding conversion therapy for queer individuals

Some counselors may claim to offer LGBT counseling when their goal is to "rehabilitate" queer individuals. These pseudoscientific practices, often called "conversion therapy," might target young people facing rejection from their families and communities. They are often faith-based and may not be offered by licensed professionals. Because of the significant harm this practice may cause, conversion therapy is banned in many jurisdictions. If you notice a licensed therapist practicing conversion treatment, report them to their state board. 

Takeaway

If you or a loved one are experiencing mental health challenges related to your sexual orientation or gender identity, consider connecting with an LGBTQ-friendly therapist. You could meet with a therapist in your area or online. An LGBTQ-affirming therapist can help you learn coping skills and self-care strategies for improving your mental health. Additionally, mental health treatment providers can be a source of understanding and validation as you navigate challenging situations that could arise from social stigma and discrimination. You're not alone, and LGBT-affirming care is possible.