Why do LGBTQ+ people seek therapy?

LGBTQ+ go to therapy for very similar reasons as straight people do, although there are additional issues that the LGBTQ+ population have to content with (such as discrimination and coming out issues).  This is a list of some of what LGBTQ+ people come to my office at Long Beach Therapy for.

Managing mental health issues:

Anxiety, depression, and PTSD are things that LGBTQ+ have to deal with. They may also seek therapy to cope with the unique challenges of being part of the LGBTQ+ community.  In addition to trauma that comes from situations of rape, assault, and other violent crimes, they deal with issues such as discrimination, marginalization, and coming out.

Improving relationships:

Often times, LGBTQ+ need help (just like anyone else in a relationship) with resolving conflicts, communicating effectively, or learning how to set boundaries.  They often have additional issues such as a partner not wanting to come out of the closet and the issues that presents as well as trouble finding a local LGBTQ+ friendly therapist.

Coping with difficult life events:

Therapy can be a supportive outlet for anyone, including LGBTQ+ individuals who are struggling to cope with difficult life events such as the loss of a loved one, a breakup, or a job loss. Therapy can provide a safe space to process and work through these challenges, and help individuals find ways to move forward.  Many times, people in the LGBTQ+ community don’t have the privilege of talking to just anyone about their relationship due to fears of discrimination. It is also hard to break up as a LGBTQ+ couple, because although 50% of heterosexual relationships end in divorce, if a LGBTQ+ couple breaks up, they often feel like they are tarnishing the community because they are the “token” LGBTQ+ person in their group.

Personal growth and self-improvement:

Therapy can be helpful for LGBTQ+ individuals who are looking to make life decisions. Therapy can help to gain a better understanding of themselves and their motivations, and provide the tools and safe space needed to set and achieve goals.

Dealing with stress and burnout:

With the demands of life and the added challenges of being part of the LGBTQ+ community, it’s common for people to feel overwhelmed and stressed. Therapy can be a helpful way to manage and reduce stress, and prevent burnout.

At Long Beach Therapy, we have therapists who are themselves in the LGBTQ+ community and we also have therapists who are allies to the LGBTQ+ community.  Please give us a call us at 562-310-9741 to see if you think we might be the right fit for you.