For many reasons, people may search for therapy that centers on LGBTQ issues rather than therapy that does not address the issues that come with it. Many people who enter therapy feel depressed, anxious, or not in control of their own lives. They may experience extreme grief, substance abuse, or another challenge. Many of these issues come with an extra layer associated with LGBTQ issues.

In many cases, individuals who fall on the LGBTQ spectrum do not have non-judgemental families, even if they still receive a lot of love. Some therapies may try to set LGBTQ issues aside and ignore them or even try to change them, but this is not always the most helpful way to pursue help.

But what exactly is LGBTQ affirming therapy? When you understand the therapy services available to you, you can best decide if it is right for you.

Understanding LGBTQ Affirming Therapy

Therapists who work in this field understand that you cannot change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity. Instead of trying to change an individual's identity or orientation, LGBTQ affirming therapists examine scientific research to find ways to address other issues and embrace their sexuality.

In LGBTQ affirming therapy, therapists address the problems as one's feelings about their orientation or the relationships with others. These therapists see acceptance as one of the keys for healing. When you feel more comfortable with your identity, you will evolve into a healthier person.

Steps LGBTQ Affirming Therapists May Perform

One step many therapists may do is ask you about your sexual orientation, gender identity, pronoun use, and anything else they should know in regard to your identity and orientation. Therapists may also assess your self-evaluation to determine how you might manifest some negative influences from the world around you. The therapist may also educate clients on the ways in which shame and fear can prevent them from living their best lives.

LGBTQ affirming therapy involves a lot of self-discovery and examination. Your therapist will encourage you to look for the positive and negative reactions you experience, to yourself, media, family members, and bigotry.

How You Can Find LGBTQ Affirming Therapy

You have many resources available to you if you want to learn more about affirming therapy for LGBTQ folks. You can ask your therapist if he or she is certified in affirmative therapy or something similar before you begin attending sessions with a particular practitioner.