LGBTQIA+ Issues
Clients within the LGBTQIA+ community are often seeking therapy for the same reasons as anyone else (e.g., anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, stress management, etc.). However, sexual and gender minorities face unique challenges that contribute to psychological distress. In my work with LGBTQIA+ clients, I frequently draw upon the Minority Stress Model (Meyer, 2003) to help illuminate these unique challenges and explore the impact that they have on clientt’ mental health.
The Minority Stress Model posits that higher rates of psychological distress and clinical diagnoses among sexual and gender minorities are not the result of these identities themselves, but are rather stemming from chronic stress associated with stigma, discrimination, and social exclusion. In particular, this framework identifies the following stressors as unique contributors to pyschological distress within the LGBTQIA+ community:
Prejudice events (i.e., stigma, discrimination, violence, political oppression, and/or non-affirmation of identities)
Internalized homophobia and/or transphobia
Expectations of rejection and/or discrimination
Challenges associated with either concealing or disclosing one’s identity
As both an LGBTQIA+ specialist and member of the community, I am particularly attuned to these unique stressors, and I strive to understand my clients’ concerns and symptoms within the context of their cultural identities and lived experiences. My practice offers affirming, trauma informed therapy for LGBTQIA+ clients, and I have particular experience working with gay or bisexual men, as well as transgender and/or gender-diverse clients.
Primary Areas of Practice
Internalized homophobia and/or transphobia
Gender dysphoria
Coming out concerns
Family of origin issues
Religious trauma
Stigma, discrimination, and/or distress related to the political climate
Shame, identity, and/or self-image concerns
Relationship concerns
If you would like to learn more about my services or are interested in scheduling an appointment, submit a contact form below.
Let’s Connect
andrew@drbingman.com
(713) 510-3257