Secure effective and compassionate counseling for LGBT+ issues in St. Louis, MO, with Carol Robinson, a certified psychotherapist providing online services to Missouri residents.
How Does Therapy Help Address LGBT+ Issues?
Mental health challenges are plentiful for many members of the LGBT+ community.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults are more likely to experience depressive episodes and suicidal ideation than heterosexual adults. The 2022 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health conducted by The Trevor Project also revealed that 45 percent of LGBTQ youth seriously considered suicide within the span of a year.
The mental health situations for all members of the LGBT+ community are not all the same, but it’s clear that many are currently struggling with serious and even life-threatening issues. Therapy cannot provide a quick resolution for the issues members of the company are dealing with, but it can prove helpful.
For many LGBT+ individuals, simply understanding their identity can be a significant challenge. They have difficulty understanding their true gender identity and sexual orientation. A therapist cannot provide the answers to those queries, but they can offer much-needed guidance.
In some scenarios, the value of having a therapist for LGBT+ issues is simply having someone who will listen. Unfortunately, many LGBT+ individuals still have trouble opening up to their families about their identities. They may find speaking with professionals who won’t render judgment easier.
Feelings of isolation are also well-known to many members of the LGBT+ community. They may even be the driving factors of suicidal ideation. Therapists can provide an empathetic presence for LGBT+ individuals to lean on.
Which Therapists Are Qualified to Handle LGBT+ Issues?
Therapy can be a valuable service for many members of the LGBT+ community, but not everyone is qualified to offer it. There are certain qualities to look for in therapists to determine if they can expertly handle LGBT+ issues.
First off, you should seek counseling from an experienced therapist. There is no substitute for experience in this field. Previous experiences working with LGBT+ individuals can help therapists better empathize with their patients, and you need that. Carol Robinson has been working with psychotherapy clients for over twenty years.
Partnering with a therapist who focuses on offering practical feedback would also be best. It’s no secret that some members of the LGBT+ community have to live in challenging situations due to their family dynamics. Therapists should be able to recognize that when providing feedback and tips.
Lastly, the ideal therapist must provide personalized treatment. Don’t settle for anything less during your search for a service provider.
Understanding 2-Spirit Identity
What is 2-Spirit?
2-Spirit is a term used by some Indigenous North American cultures to describe individuals who possess both masculine and feminine spirits within them. It is an umbrella term that encompasses a wide range of gender identities and sexual orientations among Indigenous peoples.
Cultural Significance
Historically, 2-Spirit people held respected roles within their communities, often serving as mediators, healers, and caregivers. They were seen as embodying a unique balance of both male and female energies, contributing to the spiritual and social well-being of their tribes.
Contemporary Context
In contemporary times, the term 2-Spirit is used by some Indigenous peoples to reclaim and revitalize their traditional understandings of gender and sexuality. It is part of broader efforts to resist colonial influences that sought to erase or marginalize diverse gender identities within Indigenous communities.
Diversity within 2-Spirit Identity
It's important to note that 2-Spirit identity is diverse and individual experiences may vary widely. Some 2-Spirit people may identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, or other identities outside of the Western gender binary.
Challenges and Recognition
Despite historical reverence, 2-Spirit individuals often face challenges such as discrimination and lack of understanding both within and outside their communities. Efforts are ongoing to foster greater acceptance, support, and recognition of 2-Spirit identities and contributions.
Celebrating Diversity
Embracing 2-Spirit identity means celebrating the richness of human diversity and honoring the resilience of Indigenous cultures in preserving these identities. By acknowledging and respecting 2-Spirit people, we contribute to creating more inclusive and equitable societies.
Call 314-282-5516 and book counseling for LGBT+ issues with Carol Robinson. From our St. Louis location, our practice serves all of Missouri online.
