Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT)

Depression, anxiety and low self-esteem are issues that can affect everyone, however, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) individuals can have other sources of mental distress which are experienced just because of their sexual orientation. Teenage years for many gay and lesbian youth can be extremely difficult and underpinned by feelings of shame, fear, feeling alone and confusion. Coming to terms with one’s sexuality, facing homophobic attitudes, negative social portrayals, discrimination and the rejection from family and friends are all issues that can potentially cause significant emotional and psychological stress. It can be a huge struggle for the individual to come to terms with accepting their sexual orientation and is a process that can last throughout life. The issues faced by the

LGBT individuals can permeate through all aspects of their life and can impact on their close relationships, self-worth, career choices, and ability to socialise. These issues can also have a negative and devastating impact on the mental and physical health and happiness of the individual. Homosexuality is often portrayed negatively within our society, indeed, Counselling and Psychotherapy services for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people have ‘developed against a historical background of medical psychological pathologisation of homosexuality over the past 130 years (King et. al., 2007). Social attitudes are changing but this change can be too slow for someone trying to find their way as a lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgendered individual.

 Counselling and Psychotherapy for Lesbian, Gay,

Bisexual and Transgender issues.

The therapist creates an environment that is safe, non-judgemental and confidential and in so doing allows you to talk about the problems you face. The alliance between you and your therapist will provide you with a solid base of support. With this support you will be able to explore techniques that you can use to help you cope with the problems in your life. These tools and techniques will be moulded to the experiences/situations in your life that might precipitate distress. The comfort and safety provided in the therapy room will allow you explore complex and painful emotions as they arise. Issues such as depression, self harm, substance use, anxiety can all be barriers to positive mental health, these are also given space within the therapeutic process.