LGBTQ Issues

I am a biracial queer woman; my identity is both personally and outwardly rooted in promoting equality in/out of the therapy office. Being lesbian, bisexual, transgender, gay, intersex, or queer (or questioning) brings unique challenges in the often prejudiced and intolerant mainstream American culture. holding onto or exploring their sexual orientation, examining internalized homophobia, managing external discrimination, or negotiating decisions about whether, when, or how to come out.

As a strong advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, I provide a supportive and inclusive space for individuals exploring their sexual orientation and gender identity. I address issues related to coming out, identity acceptance, and navigating societal and personal challenges. My goal is to help clients feel validated and empowered in their identities and experiences.

I dedicate most of my career to working with LGBTQ+ clients and continue my supplemental education and trainings on these topics. I am also an openly queer therapist with lived experience!

I am a cisgender gay man who is passionate about working with people in the Queer community. I have worked in community clinic and college counseling programs focused on LGBTQIA2S+ people and their needs. I am also familiar in working with people who have HIV/AIDS. I am participating in ongoing training and consultation so that I can be knowledgeable and current about issues relating to sexuality, gender identity, and sexual wellness.

I provide trauma-informed, affirmative mental health care for lesbian, gay, bisexual, pansexual, asexual, aromantic, intersex, transgender, non-binary, and gender expansive people, as well as those questioning their gender identity or sexual orientation.

There are many unique beautiful parts of being LGBTQAI+, as well as unique challenges and stressors. If you’re looking for an individual or couples therapist that understands that part of you, I’m excited to support you. Whether you’re looking to explore things around your sexual/gender identity, or you are wanting to focus on other things entirely with someone that has similar lived experiences, I’m here for you.

If you’re navigating LGBTQ+ challenges, I’m here to provide a safe, supportive space where you can be yourself without judgment. Whether you’re working through identity questions, relationship concerns, or facing discrimination, I’m here to listen and support you. Together, we’ll celebrate who you are and find ways to build confidence, self-acceptance, and emotional well-being.

As a member of this community (as with the other communities I serve) I have lived experience of the microaggressions and struggles faced by the LGBTQIA+ or SAGA community when attempting to access mental health care. I provide a sex positive and affirming space to explore all aspects of sexuality, gender, and relationship, but also understand the ways in which simply belonging to this community impacts other aspects of a person's life.

I have a great deal of training and experience in unpacking and exploring different aspects of gender identity and sexual orientation. I have worked with clients at many different stages in their journey and have supported them from wherever they are, guiding them to wherever they want to go. I am well-versed with medical intervention treatment options regarding gender identity and have access to a wealth of resources supporting the LGBTQ+ community in different ways.

It's no secret that the LGBTQ community faces discrimination and bigotry, even within its own ranks. But what's often overlooked is the unique challenges that gay men over 50 face. They're more likely to be single, living alone, and without children or close family support. They're also at a higher risk of developing mental health problems and chronic illnesses. And because of the prejudice and stigma they've faced throughout their lives, many gay men over 50 have difficulty trusting others.

I incorporate an intersectional understanding in my work with LGBTQ+ clients, as I understand that our community holds many different identities and life experiences. Within this diversity there are common themes that we as queer people deal with, including the prejudices of an at-times hostile society. My therapeutic approach is to understand my clients' experience and feelings, centering them in a grounded and safe space.

Embracing your LGBTQ journey, as a therapist I help create acceptance through narrative therapy. With attachment therapy, we cultivate a supportive environment, fostering self-love and understanding. Introducing expressive arts, we channel emotions into a vibrant palette, exploring identity and healing. Together, we reshape your narrative, celebrating the unique colors of your authentic self, coloring your world with empowerment and pride.

Just like any other group, the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQ) community faces mental health issues and unique challenges. However, LGBTQ individuals are almost 3 times more likely than others to experience a mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety. Additionally, more than half of individuals who identify as transgender experience depression or anxiety. Young people are even more at risk. If you are a member of the LGBTQ community and are facing

I support folks: looking at the intersection of sexual orientation and/or gender identity and coming out; pondering gender identity development; exploring expressions of alternative sexuality, including negotiating polyamorous relationships; building strong LGBTQQ relationships; struggling with queer aging.

Being a member of the community myself has helped with understanding, compassion, empathy, and relatedness that is needed to help people navigate these issues. Being POC also helps with understanding the intersectionality of it all. I have hosted LGBTQ support groups in the past.

As a member of these communities I combine lived experience with education and clinical knowledge to provide support to the LGBTQIA+, ethical non-monogamous, and Kink communities. I am inclusive of all non-traditional relationship styles and actively support Power Exchange dynamics in my practice.