Counselling for LGBTQIA+

Counselling is important for individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community as it provides a safe, supportive environment for exploring personal identities and navigating the unique challenges they may face.
Many members of this community experience discrimination, stigma, and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and isolation, often stemming from societal rejection or internalised homophobia.

Kalmer Counselling offers a space for individuals to express their feelings, work through trauma, and build resilience against external pressures. It also helps to develop coping strategies and enhance self-acceptance and self-esteem. Additionally, therapists who are knowledgeable about LGBTQIA+ issues can provide affirming support, validating the experiences of their clients and fostering a sense of belonging. Ultimately, therapy plays a vital role in promoting mental health, well-being, and empowerment within the LGBTQIA+ community, helping individuals lead fulfilling and authentic lives.

Kalmer PRIDE

Are you struggling with you gender identity or sexuality or experiences related to being LGBTQIA+?

LGBTQIA+ stands for: 

• Lesbian
• Gay
• Bi+
• Trans and non-binary
• Queer and questioning
• Intersex – also known as variations of sex characteristics (VSC) or differences in sex development (DSD)
• Ace and aro
• + The 'plus' represents other experiences and identities not named in LGBTQIA

Our LGBTQIA+ community has experienced over many years discrimination, isolation, exclusion, rejection, internal and societal oppression. Several studies found that LGBTQ+ individuals suffer from higher rates of depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation.

There are also high numbers of Autistic individuals who are struggling with their gender identity and sexuality.

Autism and Gender Identity and Sexuality

Autigender

Also known as Autisgender, Autismgender or Neurogender can only be understood in the context of being autistic.  These terms are used when a person’s autism significantly affects their gender and/or how they experience gender. Autigender is not autism as a gender but describes an experience of gender that is profoundly influenced by being autistic. A person’s autistic identity and experience of gender cannot be unlinked.

Neuroqueer

Is another term used by the autistic community by being both Neurodivergent and Queer. It's when an autistic individual is aware and/or exploring how these two aspects entwine and interact.

Five top tips for counselling individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community

• Create Safe and Affirming Spaces: Its important to establish a welcoming environment where individuals feel comfortable expressing their identities and experiences. Its also imperative to use inclusive language and display symbols of support, such as pride flags or affirming literature, to signal that the space is safe for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
• Be Knowledgeable and Culturally Competent: Educate yourself about LGBTQIA+ issues, terminology, and the unique challenges faced by this community. Understanding the diversity within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, including different identities and experiences, can help build trust and rapport with clients.
• Practice Active Listening: Approach each session with empathy and an open mind, allowing individuals to share their thoughts and feelings without interruption. Validate their experiences and emotions, and avoid making assumptions based on stereotypes or preconceived notions.
• Address Intersectionality: Recognise that LGBTQIA+ individuals may face multiple layers of identity and oppression, such as race, socioeconomic status, or disability. Consider how these intersecting factors can influence their mental health and experiences, and tailor your approach accordingly.
• Empower Autonomy and Self-Advocacy: Encourage clients to express their needs, set their goals, and advocate for themselves. Help them develop coping strategies, self-acceptance, and resilience, empowering them to navigate challenges related to their identities and experiences in a supportive manner.