LGBTQAI: BUILDING CONFIDENCE AND DEFINING MEANING
I share my experience from that of a clinician that has worked with 100’s of LGBTQAI individuals and has presented on various LGBTQAI topics at the regional and national level. Additionally, as an LGBTQAI identified therapist, I am keenly aware of the layers that encompass my mental health. These layers include past internal messages, external messages, and the societal pressure of gaining acceptance.
According to Mental Health America, almost 40% of LGBTQAI individuals (4.5 million) in the entire U.S. reported having a mental illness in the past year. That is almost the size of the entire state of Kentucky! LGBTQAI individuals are 2.5 times more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and substance misuse.
It is my belief that we can truly find balance through unpacking and processing old messages and strengthening our self esteem. My therapeutic approach with LGBTQAI identified clients is affirming and strength based. My approach is integrative and together we customize exercises that will nurture a variety of life circumstances.
Reprocess Old Messages: I utilize a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach to explore thought patterns, unhelpful thinking, and cognitive distortions. These thought patterns can have a direct impact on our emotions, feelings, and actions, therefore we can re-frame them and start to re-process. Oftentimes, I find clients have consistent messaging around, “I should, “I must”, or “I can’t” and these can be what are defined as “shaming” messages. We work to remove shame and build new confidence.
Self Esteem: the process of building self-esteem begins by learning who you are. What do you like? How have your past experiences shaped you? Who do you want to become? These are all important questions to define before moving forward. Additionally, learning to respect yourself by defining healthy boundaries in your life and accepting yourself without the need to change valuable assets is the framework for beginning to love yourself.
As an identified gay therapist, it is a privilege to honor your story and work together to define new meaning. Whatever the transition or life focus you are experiencing, it is unique and I look forward to leveraging your strengths as you grow confidence within! Reach out today for a consultation.
