you’re struggling to feel good about yourself and your relationships because of your gender identity or sexuality
You want to find a partner, but you are struggling to meet someone you truly connect with
You’re a gay couple looking for relationship counseling
As an LGBTQ person you’ve had to navigate through some difficult experiences. You may still be coming to terms with being gay or bi-sexual. You might need help figuring out what this means. Or, you’re comfortable with your sexuality but still struggle with self worth. Maybe, you suffer from depression or anxiety. The experience of growing up gay in a heterosexist world is not easy. In fact, it can be traumatizing. You may feel isolated, lonely, and exhausted from self criticism. Working with a therapist can help you overcome the pain. You can heal past wounds and live the life that you deserve.
LGBTQ Support and LGBTQ counseling for FOLX struggling with Anxiety & depression
Somewhere between 30 and 60 percent of LGBTQ people deal with anxiety and depression at some point in their lives. That rate is 1.5 to 2.5 times higher than that of their straight or gender-conforming counterparts. This is not too surprising when you think about the impact of being subjected to persistent prejudice and discrimination. It means you become hyper alert at reading situations and gauging how safe it is to be yourself. This leads to what psychologists call minority stress. According to the American Psychological Association, minority stress is “the relationship between minority and dominant values and resultant conflict experienced by minority group members.” Many studies have shown that minority stress has powerful, lasting, and negative impacts on the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ people. The end result can be depression and/or anxiety.
When I work with LGBTQ individuals, I pay careful attention to the larger picture. Many factors determine who we are but being LGBTQ brings a unique set of challenges. Understanding and appreciating those challenges and their impact is essential. It allows for tailored treatment that is not only affirming of who you are but effective in minimizing anxiety and depression. Contact me to learn more about LGBTQ+ affirming counseling in my therapy practice.
same-sex couples Therapy
Same-sex couples experience many of the same challenges as straight couples. But, it’s important to acknowledge the differences. Many gay people carry internalized shame or baggage from previous relationships that can make it hard to be vulnerable. Some LGBTQ couples prefer open relationships, but these require careful negotiation and communication. Whatever form the relationship takes, it is essential to be able to identify and discuss vulnerable feelings and talk about difficult subjects.
My work with same sex couples is based on research. It is results-oriented and skills-based. I conduct a thorough Gottman Method relationship checkup so that we can pinpoint strengths and weaknesses. From there, we explore complaints and difficulties in a way that is constructive. We work on improving communication and managing conflict. We look at ways to build or restore trust, improve connection, and share hopes and dreams. This evidence-based approach has been found to help same sex couples improve over twice as much as most couples. Contact me to learn more about LGBTQ+ couples counseling in my Santa Rosa, CA, therapy clinic, or online.
RESOURCES FOR LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY IN THE BAY AREA
There are many resources for LGBTQ+ people in Sonoma county and the Bay Area. To find out more, visit:
LGBTQ Support and Counseling ONLINE AND in SANTA ROSA, California
To begin LGBTQ+ affirming therapy and same sex couples counseling online, follow these steps:
Contact me to set up a free 15 minute phone consultation
Meet with me for your first therapy session either online or in person
Begin LGBTQ affirming therapy and get back on track with your life/relationship
OTHER Therapy SERVICES OFFERED BY COLIN BAPTIE, PSY.D
My other services include treatments for depression, anxiety, and ADHD, and grief and loss counseling. I offer online therapy for people living in the state of California. You can learn more about counseling, online therapy, and relevant mental health topics by visiting my blog. Please reach out to me to learn more about the many ways I can help you.