LGBTQIA+ counseling is a type of queer affirmative counseling dedicated to assisting individuals and couples in navigating the intricate intersections of their sexual orientation, gender identity, and mental health, with a primary goal of fostering well-being, self-acceptance, and affirming a client’s life experiences as a queer individual. Although not all LGBTQ+ individuals seek specialized counseling, a substantial number discover vital support and empathy within these inclusive and affirming therapeutic settings.
Thriveworks LGBTQ+ counseling in Charlotte, NC typically begins with an initial assessment to understand your specific needs. LGBTQ+ counselors aim to create a safe, inclusive, and affirming environment for anyone within the LGBTQ+ community by encouraging self-acceptance and offering an understanding of your identity and experiences. LGBTQ+ therapy addresses issues like coming out, discrimination, mental health challenges, and gender transition, and provides support for LGBTQ+ relationships.
LGBTQ+ counseling is incredibly important because it can help queer individuals accept their identity, learn self-love, and give them important tools for facing the challenges of being a queer person in today’s society, among many other benefits. LGBTQ+-affirming therapists can understand the unique perspective and experiences of queer individuals as they help them process past trauma, address family conflicts, treat issues with anxiety, and more.
Counseling for Charlotte’s LGBTQ Community–Therapists and Counselors in Charlotte, NC
The therapists, counselors, and life coaches at Thriveworks Charlotte understand that one of the most powerful changes people can make within their lives is acknowledging who they are to themselves and to the world. This means being honest about what they like and dislike, about how they are strong and weak, where they experience happiness and discontent, and of course, about who they are—emotionally, physically, spiritually, and sexually.
Living life with honesty takes courage and probably a little support along the way. That is why Thriveworks Charlotte offers LGBTQ informed therapy. No one should have to navigate issues regarding their sexuality and their mental health alone. We are here for you. Reach out to Thriveworks to schedule an LGBTQ counseling session today.
What Could LGBTQ Therapy Look Like?
The mental health professionals at Thriveworks Charlotte try to address life’s issues within their proper context. While sexuality is not the entirety of who people are, it is a major factor in forming one’s identity—what makes you who you are. You are a unique individual. Your story is unlike anyone else’s. The challenges you face are your challenges. The opportunities you have are your opportunities. When you begin therapy at Thriveworks Charlotte, your time will likely begin by building trust as you get to know your counselor, and your counselor gets to know you too. You may discuss what brought you to schedule therapy. Therapist may ask questions such as…
- What is exciting in your life right now?
- What is your living situation like?
- Is there something about your life you would change if you could?
- Where do you see yourself in a year? Three years? Five? More?
- How did you come to decision to seek out a counselor?
Many cultural representations of therapy focus upon problems and difficulties and shortcomings. While hardships are real, therapy is much more focused upon the positive. What are your strengths? Where do you feel comfortable? What opportunities do you want to pursue and how can you do that? Many times, people need to learn relational and emotional skills that help them succeed in achieving what they want out of life.
Therapy is often a process of self-discovering, where you can learn about your strengths and weaknesses and where you can learn what you need and how to get it. Counseling sessions often focus upon creating a judgment-free, safe space where these issues can be explored without shame. In therapy, clients often feel free to speak openly and honestly—to name and explore ideas they otherwise would not dare discuss.
Common Discussions in LGBTQ+ Counseling
Topics that come up in LGBTQ therapy:
- “Coming out” issues
- Family concerns
- Dealing with discrimination and non-acceptance
- Healthy communication
- Self-esteem issues
- Transcending gender roles
- Depression
- Gender and sexual identity
- Dating and other relationships
- Addiction
- Eating disorders
- Anxiety and stress
- Past trauma and abuse
Scheduling LGBTQ+ Counseling at Thriveworks Charlotte
What is happening in your life right now? If you are facing discrimination or marginalization, know that we are sorry for what you are experiencing. There is no shame in who you are. If you are navigating additional difficulties because of your sexuality and who you are, know that you are not alone. The professionals at Thriveworks Charlotte are ready to stand with you and for you.
When you contact our office, a person will answer. Our scheduling specialists will help you schedule an appointment. Many new clients have their first appointment within the week of their first call. We also accept many forms of insurance as well as offer evening and weekend appointments. Let’s work together for more acceptance and inclusion. Contact Thriveworks Charlotte today.
