LGBT THERAPY
IN CALIFORNIA & FLORIDA
Affirmative Therapy for Our LGBT Community
LGBT Therapy: Supporting Our Community Toward Excellent Mental Health
Your identity formation and transition and the challenges that come with it is a deeply personal journey. From the joys of self-discovery to the pain of feeling misunderstood or unaccepted, every step can be filled with triumphs and setbacks. Our therapists are here to help you with whatever stage you’re in. Most of us are members of the community ourselves.
LGBT Identity Formation and Transition
For many LGBT people, the journey of identity formation and transition is a fundamental aspect of their lives. Whether discovering one's gender identity or coming to terms with your sexual orientation, this process is deeply personal. It's a journey of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and ultimately, self-love. There is grief, joy, awe, and pain that only other LGBT people understand.
Finding Acceptance in Affirming Spaces
The pain of not fitting into spaces that are not queer affirming is a common experience for many LGBT people. Whether it's enduring heteronormative social settings or facing discrimination in healthcare, education, or other areas of life, the lack of acceptance can lead to feelings of isolation and alienation. Seeking out queer-affirming spaces like our practice and building connections with supportive communities can provide a sense of belonging and validation. The value of connection can’t be overstated. It’s lifesaving.
Coping with Loneliness, Anxiety, and Depression In The LGBT Community
Throughout the process of coming out and being out, feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression are common. The fear of rejection, discrimination, or violence can weigh heavily on the minds of LGBT people, leading to heightened stress and emotional distress. Seeking support from therapists, support groups, or online communities can offer a safe space to process these feelings and receive validation and understanding.
Finding Community and Belonging As An LGBT Person
Amidst the challenges and struggles, finding community and belonging can be transformative for LGBT individuals. Whether it's connecting with other queer individuals through local LGBT organizations, attending pride events, or joining support groups, finding a sense of community can provide comfort, support, and validation. It's essential to surround oneself with people who accept and celebrate one's authentic self.
Grieving Lost Time and Opportunities
One of the profound challenges faced by many LGBT people is the grief and loss associated with time that could have been spent authentically embracing their true selves. The realization that precious years were spent conforming to societal norms or hiding one's true identity can evoke feelings of regret, sadness, and even anger. However, it's essential to acknowledge these feelings and find ways to heal from the past while embracing the present and future.
Coping with Misunderstanding and Rejection
Feeling misunderstood or unaccepted by loved ones and society at large is a painful reality for many LGBT individuals. Whether it's facing rejection from family members, discrimination in the workplace, or harassment in public spaces, the lack of acceptance can take a significant toll on mental health and well-being. Finding support from understanding allies and affirming communities can be crucial in navigating these challenges.
LGBT Support and Healing Through Teletherapy
If you're an LGBT adult, couple, or teenager in California or Florida seeking support on your journey of self-discovery and identity, our teletherapy services are here to help. Our compassionate therapists specialize in supporting LGBT people through identity formation, coming out, building healthy relationships, and coping with mental health challenges. Whether you're struggling with loneliness, anxiety, depression, or grief, we're here to provide a safe and affirming space for you to explore your feelings and find healing.
We Are Entirely Therapist Owned & Operated
Here’s how that sets us apart from large teletherapy companies:
We don’t use algorithms - everything is customized to you
We don’t sell your data like large companies have - your privacy is everything to us
We do not accept outside funding - we focus on your satisfaction instead of investors’
LGBT Therapy: Your Path to The Best Version Of You
We are proud to support people from diverse backgrounds and life journeys. As a practice, one of our primary passions is in providing affirming LGBT therapy for our community. We have created a space for LGBT people to experience healing and understanding.
Authenticity Looks Good On Everyone
We believe that the path toward strong mental health is paved with authenticity. When you can be who you really are, you are calmer, happier, and more connected. We strive to offer affirmation at every step of your growth. We believe that everyone has the right to be proud of who they are, and it is our mission to help you reach that point.
Recognizing Lived Experiences In the LGBT Community
Our LGBT therapy services offer a judgment-free zone for LGBT folx to explore their experiences of sexual orientation and gender identity. We provide guidance on coming out, building self-esteem, and building healthy relationships. We also recognize that there’s a lot more to you than your orientation or gender! It’s common to want an LGBT affirmative space to talk about other parts of your life.
The Need for LGBT Informed Support
Those of us in the LGBTQ community often have a greater need for support compared to our straight and cisgender peers. There are plenty of challenges that arise as we strive to be our most authentic selves. It's not easy to come to a deep understanding of our identities. On this personal journey, we navigate family dynamics, social expectations, and harmful norms. The search for community and the building of meaningful relationships is vital.
Challenges and Misunderstandings LGBT People Face
People in the LGBTQ+ community often have their identities, experiences, and genders dismissed, misunderstood, or condemned. This can create extra burdens and challenges on our path to self-acceptance and well-being. Even well-meaning therapists may place the burden of explaining these experiences on their clients. At our practice we strive to be different.
Creating Space for Affirmation in LGBT Therapy
Building Resilience For LGBT Adults, Couples, and Teens
When you work with our practice, your identity is respected, cherished, and celebrated. We understand the significance of finding a place where you can freely explore your sexual orientation, gender identity, relationships, and experiences. It's not a given to do so without fear of judgment or discrimination. Our practice is designed to be a place where you can be your truest self. Our professionals embrace and support your journey.
A Holistic Approach To LGBT Therapy
We don't just focus on immediate problems in our therapy. We look at your whole well-being. We know that you have different parts to who you are, and we consider everything that affects your happiness and fulfillment. We help you with your emotions, thoughts, relationships, taking care of yourself, and growing as a person. We're here to guide you through all the different parts of your journey and support you in every aspect of your life.
Personalized Teletherapy for Long-Term Health and Happiness
We believe that LGBT therapy should be tailored to your needs. Your journey is unique, and we respect that by adapting our approach to what you specifically need. We use techniques that have been proven to work and show compassion as we guide you. We also understand the experiences of LGBTQ people deeply. Our goal is to give you therapy that works, matters to you, and creates lasting changes. We're here to help you achieve the goals and dreams that are important to you.
Ongoing Support and Growth For LGBT People
Therapy is a process that can bring about lasting changes in your life. We're committed to supporting you and giving you guidance throughout your journey. We celebrate your successes with you and help you navigate any challenges that come up. We're ready to adjust our approach as needed to make sure you keep growing and feeling well. Together, we'll go on a path of healing, self-acceptance, and living a life that reflects who you truly are.
A Bright Future Together
We imagine a future where you find healing, grow, and accept yourself deeply. We're committed to creating a safe, supportive, and empowering space for you to explore, discover, and transform. With our expertise and experience, we can help you overcome challenges and create a life that matches your true self. The path to healing and feeling complete starts here. We're excited to walk this transformative road with you.
Read about our services for LGBT couples.
Making Personal Growth Easier For LGBT People
We think that personal growth and finding out more about yourself are things that keep happening throughout your whole life. As a practice that supports LGBTQ+ people, we promise to give you the tools and help you need to keep growing. Our therapists will work together with you to make a plan that fits your needs. Our goal is to help you feel confident in being yourself, become stronger, and learn how to handle any challenges that might come your way.
Creating Connections In The LGBT Community
Having meaningful connections with others in the LGBTQ+ community is important for your health. We understand how vital it is to have support and connections with other people. We're committed to helping you build and keep those connections. In therapy, we can explore different ways to be part of the community. We can help you find places and groups to build relationships that make you feel happy and fulfilled.
Nothing Is More Important Than A Great Therapist Match
Research suggests that feeling a strong connection to your therapist is one of the most important factors influencing successful therapy.
That’s why we’re so committed to making sure you’ve got a good therapist fit.
No algorithms. No automation. Just real, human-centered connection.
We’ve refined a matching process over years that considers your goals for therapy, personality, preferences, and research-backed modalities.
It starts with a free 20-minute conversation directly with one of our therapists.
LGBT Couples Therapy
Navigating the ups and downs of a relationship is a challenge that every couple faces. But when you're in an LGBT partnership, you may encounter unique hurdles that demand a specific approach to therapy. Our LGBT couples therapy, including specialized lesbian marriage counseling, is tailored to address these challenges and help you overcome them and strengthen your bond. It’s possible to find that harmonious and loving connection you both desire.
In LGBT relationships, the dynamics can differ from heterosexual partnerships due to societal, familial, and individual factors. Our expertise in lesbian couples counseling is designed to help you and your partner navigate these challenges effectively. Learn more about how our LGBT couples therapy can make a significant difference in your relationship.
BODY POSITIVE
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SEX POSITIVE
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ANTI-RACIST
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GENDER AFFIRMING
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BODY POSITIVE 🤍 SEX POSITIVE 🤍 ANTI-RACIST 🤍 GENDER AFFIRMING 🤍
Therapy for Trans and Nonbinary Teenagers
We have experience working with trans and gender-expansive youth and helping support parents with related issues.
It can be hard to let go of your ideas about your child’s identity and future. This often creates conflict with your teen, who feels you are dismissing them.
You may wonder if it’s a phase or worry about their safety. We can help both of you through those questions and feelings, and help you reconnect with your beautiful teen.
Experienced and Understanding LGBT Therapists: Walking the Path with You
Expertise and Community Connection
Our team of therapists has significant experience in working with the LGBT community. Many of our therapists are members of the community themselves. We intimately understand the challenges and triumphs that come with being a part of this community. Combined with our professional expertise, this allows us to provide a high level of understanding and empathy.
When you choose us as your partners in therapy, you can rest assured that you are in the hands of compassionate professionals who genuinely "get it."
We value your courage and strength in seeking therapy, and we are honored to walk alongside you. We look forward to building a therapeutic partnership that is based on trust, respect, and affirmation. Together, we will work towards your true potential and helping you live an authentic life.
FAQs: LGBT Therapy
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While many elements are the same, LGBT therapy differs from traditional therapy in that it specifically addresses the experiences and challenges faced by people in the LGBT community. Therapists who specialize in LGBT therapy are knowledgeable about issues like identity exploration, discrimination, coming out, social stressors, and complex relationships. They understand the greater social and political climate that LGBT people are all too aware of. They create a safe and affirming space where clients can explore their identities and experiences without fear of judgment.
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Yes! Therapists have wildly different policies on what they will and will not share with clients, but it’s always okay to ask. If she’s not comfortable sharing, she’ll tell you that. All our therapists that offer LGBT therapy at Laurel Therapy Collective are happy to answer this question. (And for what it’s worth, many of us are members of the LGBT community.)
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LGBT therapy provides a supportive environment where you can explore your gender identity and sexual orientation. Therapists can offer guidance, validation, and coping strategies to navigate the complexities of the coming out process, including addressing fears, uncertainties, and potential challenges.
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At Laurel Therapy Collective, we can assure you that your therapist is affirming and knowledgeable on LGBT issues. Some of our therapists are members of the LGBT community themselves, including our owner, and others have years of experience serving LGBT clients.
When seeking an LGBT-affirming therapist, it's essential to ask about their experience working with LGBT clients. Look for therapists who openly identify as LGBT-affirming and have received specialized training in LGBT issues.
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That depends on your priorities. We know that having a shared identity, such as working with a lesbian therapist, can be very helpful. But perhaps your orientation isn’t the most salient part of your identity. Maybe the most salient part of your identity is being someone with chronic illness, or a person recovering from religious trauma. It would be impossible to find a therapist who shares all your intersections of identity. If you feel strongly about working with an LGBT therapist, you deserve to find that great fit. But if your primary concern is processing trauma, a straight therapist who has years of experience working with LGBT people could be the best fit. Think about your priorities for therapy and go from there.
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Yes, absolutely. Research repeatedly proves that teletherapy is just as effective as in person therapy for most issues. Furthermore, with a specialization such as LGBT therapy, there may not be a therapist close to you that you feel good working with. The convenience of access to teletherapy can’t be overstated.
If you’re worried about it not feeling the same as in-person therapy, see our tips for making teletherapy as effective as possible here.
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LGBT therapy uses many therapeutic techniques. Our holistic approach includes cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, mindfulness-based approaches, narrative therapy, internal family systems, and feminist therapy, among others. These techniques can help you explore your issues from many different angles.
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LGBT therapy can provide a safe space for you to process and heal from the effects of discrimination, stigma, and internalized homophobia or transphobia. Our therapists understand how difficult to be swimming in the sea of prejudice, however subtle, day after day. It’s hard to prevent some of the hatred from getting inside. Sometimes, it’s helpful to have an outside person pointing out what’s on your side of the street and what’s not. Our LGBT therapists offer support, validation, and coping strategies to address negative beliefs, build resilience, and cultivate self-compassion.
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Friend and family issues are some of the trickiest parts of LGBT life. LGBT therapy can help you navigate relationship dynamics, including romantic relationships, family relationships, and friendships. LGBT therapists can offer guidance, communication skills, and conflict resolution strategies to help you navigate relationships in a healthy and fulfilling way. We can also help you set boundaries with others and with yourself to make better relationships possible.
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In your first session of LGBT therapy, you can expect to discuss your reasons for seeking therapy, what’s hardest about life right now, and what you hope to achieve in therapy. Your therapist may ask about your history, experiences, and other challenges you're currently facing. The first session is an opportunity to begin building a trusting therapeutic relationship. We know many people are eager to get started and feel better, but building a relationship first is important.
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LGBT therapy follows the same legal and ethical guidelines and confidentiality standards as medical practices. Your therapist is legally and ethically bound to maintain confidentiality, with few exceptions. The most common exceptions are for professional consultation with other licensed therapists, and if there is an imminent risk of harm to yourself or others. You have the right to privacy, autonomy, and informed consent. At our practice, we use the utmost care and concern for your private information. If you have any questions, you are always welcome to ask. Transparency is important to us.
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LGBT therapy can help you build resilience by providing support, validation, and coping strategies to navigate the challenges in your life. Therapists can also help you cultivate self-acceptance, self-compassion, and a sense of belonging by exploring their identity, values, and strengths.
Empowering Your Gender Journey With Letters of Support
We believe in the importance of every person's journey towards authenticity. Our practice provides affirming therapy services for our LGBTQ+ community, including support documents for gender affirming care.
We Understand Gender Affirming Care
Gender affirming care is life saving care. Our practice takes pride in supporting people who are exploring or transitioning. This includes helping you accessing medical treatments such as hormone therapy or surgeries that align with your gender identity.
We understand that this journey can be complex and deeply personal. Our therapists provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your gender identity and receive the support you need.
Letter Writing for Gender Affirming Care
One of the services we offer is writing letters of support for gender affirming care. These letters play a vital role in the medical and legal processes that you may undergo during your gender affirmation journey. We know it's emotional and inconvenient to need these letters. But until it becomes easier to access care, we are happy to provide letters to people we have assessed and worked with for at least three sessions.
Respecting Your Expertise
We believe you are the expert on your experience. Your gender is not something anyone else can determine for you. We believe you should be able to access hormone therapy, gender confirmation surgery, or legal gender marker changes without issue. Sadly, this is not how our current medical and legal system is set up. Our therapists are here to provide assessments and letters of support to make accessing care easier.
Specialized Training and Advocacy
Our therapists have specialized training in gender issues and have received training in how to write effective letters of support. We understand the medical and psychological aspects of gender affirming care. We are well-versed in the criteria and requirements set by insurance companies. This ensures that the letters of support we write meet the necessary standards for insurance approval. We can articulate the medical necessity of gender affirming procedures, helping you gain access to the care you deserve.
Navigating Insurance Challenges
Getting insurance coverage for gender affirming medical and surgical procedures can be challenging. It can also be very emotional and psychologically taxing. Having gatekeepers to life-saving medical care is unjust and unfair. We hope to remove as many barriers as possible.
Our team is dedicated to assisting clients through this often complex process. We provide detailed, professionally crafted letters that emphasize the medical and psychological necessity of gender affirming treatments, increasing the likelihood of insurance approval.
Issues We Often Explore In LGBT Therapy
It would be great if there was a standardized approach to LGBT therapy. But that’s simply not the case, and you shouldn’t work with a therapist who acts like it is. Here are six areas unique to LGBT therapy that our therapists can help with.
Outness and Identity
Coming out isn’t a one time thing. It’s a perpetual conversation and negotiation with self and others. A good LGBT therapist should be able to help you navigate these decisions and conversations.
Communication
It turns out LGBT folx have some unique skills when it comes to communication. We tend to be more empathetic and careful with our words. But that doesn’t mean communication is always easy.
Future and Family Planning
Building a life, relationship, and family as an LGBT person often comes with added layers of complexity and emotional upheaval. Making decisions about relationships, titles, legal agreements, about how and when to expand your family, as well as facing system, financial, and biological barriers, can be exhausting and intense. Our LGBT therapists get it.
Gender Identify
We wish more therapists understood the basics of our alphabet soup, but the truth is many decent therapists still don’t understand the difference between orientation and gender identity. We know it’s a distinct but interconnected dance between the two. If you’re exploring your gender, or hold a gender identity other than the one you were assigned at birth, you’ll find affirmation and understanding here. No extra labor on your part. Simply share your experience without having to explain basic concepts.
Family Issues
Lack of family acceptance can be devastating and stressful for LGBT people. It can cause us to question our worth and purpose. It can make joyful events like weddings, births, and other life milestones painful, and it makes difficult life events like illness and loss more devastating. Working with a great therapist can help you overcome these difficulties and build meaningful community to celebrate and support you through life.
Homophobic & Transphobic Violence and Internalized Homophobia and Transphobia
It’s difficult to move through a world where violence on a macro and micro level are a reality. It’s not possible to prevent it from affecting your view of yourself. Over time, this can become internally toxic. Our LGBT therapists can help you work through internalized homophobia and transphobia and heal. This is the real meaning of pride, after all: the resilience we feel when we overcome being taught to hate ourselves.
Other Teletherapy Services in California
Empower yourself with personalized teletherapy services from Laurel Therapy Collective. We understand that mental health is personal and diverse, which is why we provide support for a variety of concerns. Our therapists in San Francisco and Los Angeles specialize in addressing anxiety, EMDR therapy, LGBTQ issues, trauma therapy, couples' therapy, therapy for lawyers, holistic therapy, and even the complexities of teenage years. We serve all of Florida and California, with particularly emphasis on serving Los Angeles, Santa Cruz, and San Francisco. We pride ourselves on fostering an inclusive and affirming environment, promoting anti-racism, body positivity, and sex positivity. You deserve healing, growth, and empowerment.