What Is LGBTQ+ Identifying and Affirming Therapy?

LGBTQ+ identifying and affirming therapy is a therapeutic approach that not only welcomes but actively supports and validates the experiences of those of us in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and broader LGBTQ+ community. This kind of therapy goes beyond simple inclusion—it’s about creating a space where our identities are respected, our lived experiences are truly understood, and our unique challenges are met with compassion, never judgment. Affirming therapists use inclusive language, honor how individuals describe themselves, and foster an environment where every aspect of identity—including sexuality, gender, race, and culture—can be explored and celebrated.

​

Why Is LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy Important?

Individuals in our community often face unique stressors, such as discrimination, minority stress, and a history of exclusion or misunderstanding within healthcare and mental health systems. These experiences can lead to higher rates of anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Many LGBTQ+ folks hesitate to seek therapy out of fear that their identities won’t be respected or understood, or because of past negative experiences. Affirming therapy directly addresses these concerns by:

• Validating Identities: Affirming therapists recognize that sexual and gender identities are not choices and should never be pathologized or changed.

• Providing Safety and Trust: Therapy becomes a safe space to explore identity, relationships, and life’s challenges without fear of judgment or discrimination.

• Addressing Internalized Stigma: Affirming therapy helps individuals work through internalized homophobia, transphobia, and other forms of self-stigma.

• Supporting Transitions and Exploration: Therapists can provide guidance and support for those navigating social or medical transitions, or exploring their identities.

• Empowering Individuals: The focus is on building resilience, self-acceptance, and advocacy skills, so individuals can navigate life with greater confidence and pride.​

​

What Makes a Therapist Affirming?

An LGBTQ+ affirming therapist is someone who truly understands the unique challenges and strengths within our community. They are committed to ongoing learning, use culturally competent practices, and create a welcoming environment—both physically and emotionally. This includes using inclusive forms, displaying affirming symbols, and ensuring confidentiality and respect at every step. Affirming therapists also recognize the importance of intersectionality and tailor their approach to each individual’s unique blend of identities and experiences.

​

How Can Affirming Therapy Help?

• Healing from Trauma: Many in our community have experienced discrimination, rejection, or violence. Affirming therapy provides a space to process and heal from these experiences.

• Building Community and Support: Therapists can help individuals connect with LGBTQ+ resources and social networks, reducing isolation and fostering a sense of belonging.

• Developing Coping Skills: Individuals learn healthy strategies to manage stress, minority stress, and other life challenges.

• Celebrating Strengths: Affirming therapy highlights the resilience, creativity, and pride within our community, helping individuals recognize and celebrate their own strengths.

​

LGBTQ+ Mental Health and Therapy Statistics:

Higher Need and Barriers to Care

• Two-thirds (67%) of LGBTQ+ individuals reported needing a mental health service in the past two years, compared to just 39% of non-LGBTQ+ individuals.

• Despite this need, only about half (55%) of LGBTQ+ people who needed mental health care actually received it, revealing a significant gap in access to care.

• Among LGBTQ+ young people, 84% wanted mental health care, but 50% were unable to access it in the past year.

Mental Health Challenges

• 66–67% of LGBTQ+ young people reported recent symptoms of anxiety, and 53–54% reported symptoms of depression.

• LGBTQ+ teens are six times more likely to experience symptoms of depression than non-LGBTQ+ teens.

• Nearly half (48%) of transgender adults have considered suicide in the past year, compared to 4% of the overall U.S. population.

Suicide Risk

• 39–41% of LGBTQ+ young people seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, including nearly half (46%) of transgender and nonbinary youth.

• 12–14% of LGBTQ+ young people attempted suicide in the past year, with higher rates among transgender and nonbinary individuals.

• LGBTQ+ youth are more than twice as likely to feel suicidal and over four times as likely to attempt suicide compared to heterosexual youth.

Impact of Affirming Spaces and Discrimination

• LGBTQ+ individuals who live in very accepting communities attempt suicide at less than half the rate of those in unaccepting communities.

• More than half of transgender and nonbinary youth found their school to be gender-affirming, and those who did reported lower rates of suicide attempts.

• Nearly half (49%) of LGBTQ+ young people ages 13–17 experienced bullying in the past year, which is strongly linked to higher suicide risk.

• Over half of LGBTQ+ people have faced denial of care, harsh language, or blame from providers due to their sexual orientation or gender identity, leading many to avoid seeking care.​

Takeaway
These statistics highlight the urgent need for accessible, affirming, and culturally competent mental health care for our community. If you are looking for an LGBTQ+ identifying and affirming therapist who is trained and committed to providing a tailored approach for every intervention, I invite you to schedule a consultation with me today.

​

Finding the Right Therapist

When looking for LGBTQ+ affirming therapy, you want to consider a provider who:

• Clearly shares their experience and commitment to working with our community.

• Uses inclusive language.

• Demonstrates empathy, cultural competence, and respect for all aspects of your identity.

• Encourages open communication and collaboration in your care.
   

If you’re part of our community and looking for a therapist who truly understands and affirms your experience, please know you deserve a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported. If you are looking for an LGBTQ+ identifying and affirming therapist who is trained and committed to providing a tailored approach for every intervention, I invite you to schedule a consultation with me today. I would be honored to support you on your mental health journey.