In an ideal world, all counsellors would have the skills, knowledge, and experience to provide affirming care to LGBTQ+ clients. Unfortunately, many of my clients have had experiences being randomly assigned a counsellor who doesn't understand important parts of their lives or histories as a queer person, or they feel nervous disclosing vulnerable parts of themselves to a counsellor who doesn't identify as having lived experience.
It can leave us feeling like a square peg in a round hole. Queer-affirming counselling, or LGBTQ2S+ counselling, isn't just "accepting" or tolerant of queer identities, but celebrates your identity and examines the impact of queerphobia, transphobia, and heteronormativity in your life.
What is LGBTQ Counselling?
LGBTQ counselling addresses the unique needs and experiences of LGBTQ2S+ people. Sometimes this means working on the social and emotional challenges that come alongside feeling like you don't quite "fit" in the environment where you are - feeling like a square peg in a round hole. Other times it means learning a sense of self-worth that you didn't get if you grew up around intolerant attitudes.
For others, it means finding queer community and overcoming loneliness. And most importantly, for many people, it just means having a safe space to come and talk without judgment - where every part of who they are is accepted and okay. Our team of LGBTQ+ therapists specialize in queer and trans affirming counselling and have immediate availability online and in-person in Vancouver.
Benefits of LGBTQ Therapy
Therapeutic services like queer affirmation counselling allow LBTQ2S+ individuals to safely explore their identities, relationships, and general mental health in a supportive environment.
Many benefits of this type of support and therapy include the following:
Development of self-acceptance
Building resilience
Improving relationships
Validating personal experiences
Taking care of high-risk mental health disparities including anxiety and depression
And more!
Embrace Your Authentic Self with Queer Affirming Counselling Services
If it’s time for you to take the next step into self-discovery, healing, and growth, trust our LBTQ2S+ identifying counsellors to help. By making the decision to discover yourself and prioritize your mental health and identity, you’re investing in a happier and healthier future.
For inclusive and supportive queer affirming counselling services, schedule an appointment with us today for support in the Vancouver Area or online!