While counselling can be sought for a number of reasons that may or may not be related to one’s sexual identity, it is important that counsellors are competent in how issues in one’s life can be impacted by the various aspects of one’s identity. LGBTQ2+ therapy, trauma-informed counselling, and affirming psychotherapy approaches can help individuals feel safe and supported while exploring their experiences.
While we have come a long way, we still have a lot more to go when it comes to oppression and resistance faced by LGBTQ2S+ individuals. Research says that as a result of discrimination faced in their lifetimes, mental health challenges faced by the LGBTQ2S+ community are much higher than the general population. In the face of social pressures, it can be difficult to maintain your authentic sense of self. Therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and mindfulness-based counselling can support emotional healing and resilience.
Strengths and challenges related to the experiences unique to gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, two-spirit, intersex and queer individuals are understood in the context of that person’s world and how these issues impact mental health, or relationships can be very nuanced. A supportive and safe space to process your experiences through LGBTQ2+ affirming therapy and person-centred counselling can be a meaningful resource in your journey.
Coming Out
Coming out can bring both joy and liberation, as well as fear of rejection and alienation. The process is unique for everyone. A common experience is the anticipation of how others will react. Many people face criticism, judgment, and disapproval from family, friends, or colleagues. This can cause lasting emotional harm.
These experiences may lead to feelings of shame, isolation, and inadequacy. They can also contribute to mental health concerns such as anxiety or depression. Processing these emotions in a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic space can support healing and recovery.
Coming out can also bring positive emotions. These may include a sense of inclusion in a community and finally feeling seen for who you are.
Passing
The pressure to “pass” as the gender you identify with can bring about significant distress, particularly when not passing can come with added threats of discrimination. Moving through the world with this much uncertainty can be exhausting and can bring about significant anxiety. Having a space where you feel safe to be who you are, as you are can be an important part of relating to yourself positively and dismantling some of the societal values that lead to the felt pressure to fit in.
Societal Oppression (e.g. homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia)
We unfortunately live in a world where many are still judged and discriminated against based on their sexual identity. As if it is not enough to face this from our external world, oftentimes these messages get internalized and can contribute to feelings of self-hatred. Counselling can be a space to challenge these societal messages and cultivate greater self-compassion and empowerment. It can also provide an opportunity to find ways to cope with the discrimination and exclusion often faced by sexual minorities.
Loss of Family Support
It is well known that having a healthy support network of others on whom you can rely is crucial to mental health. Sadly, many who identify as LGBTIQ face rejection and alienation from their families when they come out or may fear doing so in the first place because of the anticipated reaction from those they care about. Coping with the feelings of loss and betrayal, as well as developing and maintaining other forms of social support, can be integral to having a sense of belonging and security.
Gender Transition
References
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. (2004). Asking the right questions 2: talking with clients about sexual orientation and gender identity in mental health, counselling, and addiction settings. Retrieved from CAMH.
Fergusson, D. M., Horwood, L. J., & Beautrais, A. L. (1999). Is sexual orientation related to mental health problems and suicidality in young people?. Archives of general psychiatry, 56(10), 876-880.