If you identify as LGBTQ or are curious about exploring a part of yourself that falls outside of the cisgender heteronormative box, therapy can be a powerful tool for self discovery, self acceptance, healing, and empowerment. However, not all therapy is the same, and there is a big difference between a therapist who has undergone training to be LGBTQ affirming versus someone who says that we are all alike and they can work with anyone. There are many things that make the LGBTQ experience different from the straight cis experience, and if a therapist doesn’t understand or appreciate those differences, there is a high likelihood that important parts of you will get minimized, bypassed, and even avoided. 

Seeking out an LGBTQ affirming therapist is pivotal to creating a healing and empowering therapy experience. Here are some of the benefits: 

• Safe and Inclusive Environment: LGBTQ+ affirming therapy provides a safe and inclusive space where individuals can express themselves authentically without fear of judgment or discrimination. Therapists who are affirming of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities create an environment where clients feel accepted and understood.

  
  

• Cultural Competence: Affirming therapists undergo training to understand the unique experiences, challenges, and strengths of the LGBTQ+ community. They are knowledgeable about LGBTQ+ terminology, identities, and issues such as coming out, family rejection, discrimination, and minority stress. This cultural competence ensures that therapy is relevant and effective for LGBTQ+ clients.

  
  

• Validation and Affirmation: Many LGBTQ+ individuals struggle with internalized shame, stigma, and societal rejection related to their sexual orientation or gender identity. Affirming therapy provides validation and affirmation of one's identity, helping clients develop self-acceptance and self-esteem. Therapists affirm clients' experiences, feelings, and identities, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment.

  
  

• Identity Exploration and Development: LGBTQ+ affirming therapy creates a supportive space for clients to explore and understand their sexual orientation and gender identity. Therapists help clients navigate questions of identity, self-discovery, and authenticity, empowering them to embrace their true selves. This exploration can lead to greater clarity, self-awareness, and personal growth.

  
  

• Coping with Minority Stress: LGBTQ+ individuals often face unique stressors related to their minority status, including discrimination, prejudice, and social rejection. Affirming therapists help clients develop coping strategies to navigate these challenges and build resilience. By validating clients' experiences and providing coping skills, therapy can reduce the negative impact of minority stress on mental health.

  
  

• Healthy Relationships and Intimacy: Intimacy and relationships can look very different in the LGBTQ community than in the cis hetero world. Alternative relationships such as polyamory and open relationships are common, and values and practices around sex and intimacy are greatly varied. The definition of a "healthy relationship" for a therapist who is not LGBTQ affirming might end up being shaming and harmful to LGBTQ relationships if they don't fall within certain parameters. LGBTQ+ affirming therapy embraces the wide spectrum of relationships and intimacy within the LGBTQ community. It addresses relationship issues, including communication, conflict resolution, and intimacy, within the context of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. Therapists support clients in building healthy, fulfilling relationships that align with their values and identities.