Written by a LGBTQ+ therapist in Long Beach.
The importance of seeing yourself represented in the media (on TV and in movies).
While no one can say that all media is good, we can say that we have learned at least one thing from some form of media. For the gay and lesbian community, this could not be truer. Shows like The L Word, Schitt’s Creek, Will & Grace, and Shameless have added lesbian and gay representation in the media. For someone coming to terms with their sexuality or for gay and lesbian youth, these portrayals can help them feel less alone. For instance, imagine a young boy thinking he might be gay but not knowing anyone else in his personal life or an older woman wanting to understand what it means to date as a lesbian. Although LGBTQ+ organizations, books, groups, and friends exist, nothing is as readily available as TV and movies. From the comfort of one’s own home, people can explore their identity or sexuality with just a click of a button.
However, while it is easy to find gay and lesbian representation in the media, that does not always mean LGBTQ+ people are portrayed in the best way possible. Much like in the real world, gay and lesbian stereotypes also exist in TV and movies. Finding LGBTQ+ representation that is helpful and positive is tricky, but seeing yourself represented in the media is important nonetheless. LGBTQ+ people face challenges and situations that are different from heterosexual or cisgender people, so watching how characters navigate relationships and LGBTQ+ issues can help. Scenarios like a coming-out scene, a character going through a breakup, or a character coming to terms with being transgender can help people in real life.
Even if you have LGBTQ+ people you can talk to and rely on, seeing yourself represented in the media provides a sense of comfort and may provide guidance on any tricky situations an LGBTQ+ person may be facing. Discovering yourself is a process, and if a TV show or movie can help, that is great! Seeing LGBTQ+ characters in the media is helpful because “ultimately, what viewers like the most about their favorite television shows is that they can identify with storylines, characters, and circumstances. Viewers should be able to look at the screen and see reflections of people they know or even themselves. LGBTQ+ people make up a large portion of the U.S. population and should not be excluded” (pride.com). So, go on! If you ever needed an excuse to make some popcorn and binge-watch Netflix, you have one now!
If you live in California and are looking for a LGBTQ+ therapist, please give us a call at Long Beach Therapy: 562-310-9741.
As someone who is in the LGBTQ+ community, I understand the need to find a therapist who is an ally. Here are tips to finding an LGBTQ+ therapist if you live outside of California: Due to licensing restrictions, since I am licensed in California, I can only see people who reside in California. I often see people in other parts of the state through online teletherapy (such as zoom), but if you live outside of California, these are some tips in finding a therapist in your area. If you are looking for an individual therapist in your area, try doing a google search on: “LGBTQ+ therapist near me” or type in YOUR CITY or state such as “LGBTQ+ therapist in California” or “LGBTQ+ therapist in Long Beach” (replace “Long Beach” and/or “California” with your city/state name). Since many older therapists in the LGBTQ+ community use “gay” when they are referring to all LGBTQ+ people, you can also look up “Gay therapist near me”.