LGBTQ people need and deserve the same level of care as everyone else. Mental health services, such as LGBTQ-specific counseling, can give queer people the time and space they need to process their thoughts and feelings on many different topics. Here are four topics that an LGBTQ support therapist would be happy to help you explore in therapy:

1. Crushes And Attraction

LGBTQ people sometimes experience attraction to people of the same gender as themselves. Gay and lesbian people may experience same-sex attraction exclusively, while bisexual people are sometimes attracted to the opposite sex. Navigating crushes can be difficult in any circumstance, but same-sex crushes can be even more confusing. People sometimes struggle to figure out if and when they'd like to pursue a relationship, in addition to struggling to figure out how to do so. LGBTQ support therapists can help therapist patients navigate dating and relationships successfully.

2. Religion

Religion is a big part of many people's lives. However, being LGBTQ and religious can sometimes cause internal and external conflicts. People who grew up in conservative communities may struggle to reconcile their religious beliefs with their gender and sexual identities. An LGBTQ support therapist can be a valuable resource for deconstructing internalized homophobic and queerphobic messages. Within a safe and supportive counseling environment, patients can sort through their religious beliefs to figure out what to keep and what to get rid of based on their values.

3. Gender Identity And Expression

Gender identity and expression are two different things that intersect in many ways. A person may identify as a man, woman, or nonbinary person. Some people feel their identities are more fluid and therefore feel more comfortable with terms like genderqueer or genderfluid. The office of an LGBTQ support therapist is an excellent place to explore your gender identity. Through conversations with your therapist, you can decide how you prefer to express your gender through clothes, behaviors, terms, and pronouns.

4. Family And Community Ties

Humans are naturally social, although each person's social groups may differ. Most people have relationships with their families, friends, and communities. However, intolerance can make it difficult to relate to these people if they are not supportive of your LGBTQ identity. A therapist can help you navigate difficulties and conflicts with your family and community. They can give you the support you need if and when you decide to come out to the people around you. If you prefer to stay closeted, your therapist can help you develop coping strategies that you can use to alleviate the feelings of dysphoria and discomfort that may arise. 

For more information, contact a local office like Encircle.