Are you a part of the LGBTQ community and feel confused about your sexuality or body? Do you need a safe space to explore topics that feel dangerous to discuss in today’s political climate? Have you ever thought, “How do I find an LGBTQ therapist near me?”
You are not alone if you have asked yourself any of these questions. According to a 2022 study conducted by The Trevor Project, the world’s largest suicide prevention and mental health organization for LGBTQ and questioning young people , 83% of LGBTQ youth wanted mental health care. This service is sought by many but requires specialized care, so you are supported in every way you need.
In this post, we will go over some of the top issues for LGBTQ youth, how therapy can help, and how to get the help and support you may need.
What are the top reported LGBTQ issues?
LGBTQ youth face unique challenges that can be difficult to navigate without the proper support. According to The Trevor Project, the world’s largest suicide prevention and mental health organization for LGBTQ and questioning young people, 45% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered suicide in the past year due to feeling isolated and misunderstood. This is why it’s crucial for LGBTQ individuals to seek help from a therapist who specializes in understanding these issues and providing them with care.
One of the most common issues reported by LGBTQ youth is depression, which can manifest in various ways, such as lack of energy or motivation, difficulty sleeping or concentrating, feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, and thoughts about death or suicide. It’s also not uncommon for LGBTQ people to experience anxiety-related symptoms like excessive worry, restlessness, racing thoughts, physical tension, and panic attacks. These mental health struggles can often lead an individual into a cycle of self-destructive behavior if left untreated.
Another issue faced by many members of the LGBTQ community is identity confusion – questioning their sexuality or gender identity while struggling with acceptance from others. This sense of internal unrest may cause them to feel disconnected from friends, family, and other loved ones. They may also feel a lack of belonging within the LGBTQ community because they don’t fit in with traditional gender roles or expectations.
Lastly, many LGBTQ individuals experience issues related to substance use and abuse. This could include using drugs or alcohol to suppress feelings of isolation and discrimination, which can lead to other problems such as addiction and self-harm.
How can an LGBTQ therapist help?
When seeking help for mental health issues, the most critical step is finding an LGBTQ-therapist. The right support can provide a safe and supportive environment where you can feel comfortable discussing your feelings and experiences without judgment or stigma. A qualified counselor will be knowledgeable about LGBTQ topics, understand the unique challenges that come with being part of this community, and be able to offer care tailored to meet your needs.
An LGBTQ therapist can provide invaluable support in helping you manage depression, anxiety, identity confusion, and other challenging emotions that may arise from living as an LGBTQ person in today’s society. Through individual therapy sessions, they can explore the underlying causes of these issues, such as past trauma or family dynamics, while developing coping skills to manage symptoms daily.
Therapists may use various therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals identify unhelpful thought patterns and replace them with more positive ones; dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), which teaches mindfulness-based strategies for stress management; and acceptance & commitment therapy (ACT) which encourages people to take action towards values-driven goals despite fearful thoughts or feelings that could otherwise hold them back.
How to find an LGBTQ therapist near me?
Finding a qualified counselor may feel intimidating, but the process can be quick. Many offices, like us here are Makin Wellness, list the specialties their therapists offer so people know they can receive the care they are looking for.
You can also search on your insurance provider’s website for mental health professionals to get a list of providers covered by your insurance, call them directly to speak to a person through the process.
Just like the list of specialties, therapists offices list the insurances they accept. It’s always a good idea to verify an office accepts your insurance before your first scheduled appointment, just to be sure. No one lines a bill they didn’t expect!
Why seek help now?
Now more than ever, is the perfect time for members of the LGBTQ community to start therapy. With many states loosening restrictions due to COVID-19, it’s easier than ever to access online or teletherapy services, which provide greater flexibility when scheduling appointments with your therapist.
Having someone who understands your struggles as an LGBTQ person can be invaluable in helping you cope with this challenging period.
Finally, seeking support sooner rather than later may lessen feelings of suicide ideation and any worsening of anxiety or depression. So don’t wait any longer – take control today by contacting an LGBTQ therapist near you.
Conclusion
The struggles of an LGBTQ-identifying person can be difficult, especially if they don’t have support at home or in their community. But we are here to be that safe space.
Here at Makin Wellness, we want you to know you do not need to go through struggles alone. We have therapists on staff who specialize in LGBTQ topics so that you can feel comfortable expressing yourself fully to work through issues and feel supported the entire way. We are Pennsylvania’s largest online therapy company. Our services allow you to stay in the comfort of your home.
If you are ready to find a therapist today, call us or start here to get in touch and start the journey to become your best, healthiest self!
