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2slgbtqia+ Services

Affirming and compassionate mental health services for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals.

We provide support that is specifically informed by the experiences, identities, and challenges that may affect people who are Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and other gender- and sexually-diverse individuals.

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It's important to note that this is not a separate type of therapy like CBT or EMDR. Rather, it is therapy provided in a way that is affirming, knowledgeable, and culturally competent regarding 2SLGBTQIA+ experiences.

Why Do People Use 2SLGBTQIA+ Therapy?

 

People may seek this type of therapy for the same reasons anyone seeks therapy, including:

  • Anxiety, depression, stress, or burnout

  • Relationship challenges

  • Grief and loss

  • Trauma

  • Life transitions

  • Self-esteem and personal growth

 

In addition, some people seek affirming therapy to address issues related to their identity or experiences, such as:

  • Exploring sexual orientation or gender identity

  • Coming out to family, friends, or coworkers

  • Navigating gender transition

  • Coping with discrimination, stigma, or minority stress

  • Family rejection or relationship challenges

  • Building self-acceptance and resilience

  • Finding community and support

 

What Makes it Different?

 

An affirming therapist understands that being 2SLGBTQIA+ is not a mental health problem. Instead, therapy provides a supportive environment where clients can discuss their experiences without having to educate the therapist about basic aspects of their identity.

 

An affirming therapist may:

  • Use a client's chosen name and pronouns

  • Understand common social and cultural challenges affecting 2SLGBTQIA+ communities

  • Recognize the impact of discrimination and stigma on mental health

  • Support identity exploration without imposing assumptions or goals

 

What Does "Two-Spirit" Mean?

 

Two-Spirit is a term used by some Indigenous people in North America to describe culturally specific understandings of gender, sexuality, and spiritual identity. It is not a blanket term for all Indigenous LGBTQ+ people, and its meaning can vary among Indigenous nations and communities.

What are the goals of therapy?

 

Goals vary by individual, but may include:

  • Improving mental health and well-being

  • Developing coping skills

  • Strengthening relationships

  • Processing difficult experiences

  • Exploring identity in a safe environment

  • Building confidence and self-acceptance

 

A Simple Way to Think About It

 

2SLGBTQIA+ therapy is affirming mental health care that recognizes and respects diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and lived experiences. People use it both for general mental health concerns and for support with issues that may be connected to identity, relationships, community, or experiences of discrimination.

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