LGBTQIA2S+ Therapy
People who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, asexual, two-spirit, and more (LGBTQIA2S+) can face a unique set of challenges as a result of their gender identity and/or sexual orientation. While society has come a long way, people within the LGBTQIA2S+ community remain at higher risk for discrimination, victimization, and hate crimes than the general population. This can cause individuals who identify as LGBTQ2S+ to experience a lack of acceptance, shame, discrimination, and fear (of being outed or discriminated against), as well as associated trauma with these experiences
At the same time, individuals who identify as LGBTQIA2S+ may experience feelings of anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, guilt and shame related to their sexual orientation and gender identity. If this sounds like you, know that you are not alone. Our practice is an inclusive and safe space for all, and we are here to support you! If you are struggling, please contact us.
Specific LGBTQIA2S+ related issues may include:
Relationship issues or concerns regarding dating, partnership, marriage, monogamy vs. polyamory, open relationships, extended families and kinship networks
Sex and kink (e.g. BDSM, role-playing)
Cross-dressing
Gender-affirming surgery
HIV status
Cultural and/or religious identity
Community-building
Conceiving and/or raising a child in a LGBTQIA2S+ partnership
Raising a child who identifies as LGBTQIA2S+
Denial, guilt or shame
Fear or other feelings around coming out
Limited social or family support
Social rejection or isolation
Discrimination or violence
High levels of stress
Anxiety (or social anxiety)
Lack of self-esteem or self-acceptance
Feeling like you were born in the wrong body (gender dysphoria)
Suicidal thoughts
Finding a therapist that’s right for you
There are a variety of therapy options that can be helpful for LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, including children/ adolescents, as well as couples and families. Depending on what challenges are arising, a therapist can help you explore treatment options and find which path is right for you. Some common treatment modalities include:
Affirmative therapy is more than just accepting queer identities. It involves care from a competent provider with knowledge and tools that apply to your specific experiences. As healthcare professionals, affirming therapists seek to understand and address how heterosexism, homophobia, and transphobia can affect daily living and provide every queer and trans individual the opportunity to heal and grow.
Queer-friendly therapists can support people who already identify as LGBTQIA2S+, and who are looking for help associated with specific mental health issues or with their relationships.
Other therapy treatments may include:
Life Transitions Therapy
Therapy for Gender Dysphoria
Person-Centred Therapy
Sex Therapy
Next steps
Our psychologists are here to help, and can provide counselling both online and in-person. If you are looking for support for specific LGBTQIA2S+ issues, check out our therapists’ profiles below. For questions, to book a free phone consultation, or for help finding a Queer Friendly Therapist, please call us at 780-860-7338 or fill out our contact form.
