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How are LGBTQ+ issues affecting you? 

LGBTQ Therapy

Do you feel disconnected from others when you need support the most?

Are the people who should support you pushing you away because of your gender identity or sexual orientation? If so, you may feel isolated, anxious, depressed, or generally stressed and uneasy.

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Like many others, you may be facing significant life challenges—whether it's the loss of a loved one, a major life transition, or difficulties from your past. If you had a difficult childhood, perhaps with absent or unkind family members, your stress levels may already be high. This might make it harder to cope with present-day struggles at work, school, or in relationships.

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Navigating these hardships is tough enough, but if your family, workplace, or community rejects you because of your sexual orientation or gender identity, the loneliness can be overwhelming. You may feel unloved, excluded from opportunities, or even alienated from your place of worship.

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These experiences add to your stress, manifesting in forms such as:

  • Rejection of you and/or your romantic partner

  • Bullying

  • Discrimination

  • Harassment

  • Microaggressions (dead-naming, misgendering, assumptions)

  • Hiding in the closet

  • Macro-level oppression (anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, hate speech, physical violence, systemic discrimination).

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When you experience stress due to stigma or discrimination, it's known as minority stress. This can increase your risk for depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and even physical health issues.

The LGBTQ+ Experience: Struggles and Strengths

If you are a BIPOC individual, navigating racism and colorism adds another layer of minority stress, making life even more challenging. Unfortunately, discrimination can exist even within the LGBTQ+ community, contributing to additional barriers such as limited access to quality healthcare, social exclusion, and financial hardship. Racial trauma can make it harder to feel hopeful about personal growth or overcoming oppression. As an ally, I am here to support you through these challenges.

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Despite the real dangers you may face, knowing you are not alone can provide relief. Therapy offers a safe space where you can work through pain, process grief, and regain control over your mental well-being. You deserve support from a therapist who is experienced, empathetic, and trained to help you navigate these struggles. 

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Your Identity and Orientation Are Not the Problem—Discrimination Is

Homophobia and transphobia stem from ignorance and fear, leading to oppression and harm. In recent years, the rise of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation has fueled discrimination, making it even harder to feel safe and valued. When society stigmatizes you, it’s understandable to internalize some of that bias. However, I want you to know that being LGBTQ+ is not bad or wrong—the mistreatment you face is.

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Discrimination can lead to isolation, withdrawal, and mental health struggles. But despite these challenges, you have the strength to overcome them. I want to help you define your identity on your own terms and reclaim the power that has always been yours.

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LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy: A Safe Space for You

I began my therapy practice in the San Francisco Bay Area, where I worked with many individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning. I have also worked with clients in non-traditional relationships, including those in ethical non-monogamy, kink, BDSM, and polyamory.

Through years of experience, I have become an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. While there is less discrimination in certain areas, I recognize that bias and oppression still exist everywhere. It is heartbreaking to see the emotional toll discrimination takes on LGBTQ+ individuals. My work in this community for decades has been a privilege and an honor.

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Now, living in the Antelope Valley, I see many young people struggling for acceptance. Rejection from family and community can lead to profound grief and isolation. The trauma of bullying, microaggressions, and harassment can make it even harder to feel safe and supported.

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Many of my clients appreciate the openness of our sessions, where they can speak candidly about personal aspects of their lives. Although I do not personally identify as LGBTQ+, I strive to be an ally who provides a compassionate, non-judgmental space for healing.

What are your concerns about LGBTQ+ Therapy?

  • You say you’re LGBTQ+ affirming, but how do I know you won’t try to change me?

Unfortunately, some therapists claim to be affirming while secretly pushing harmful conversion practices. I want to be clear: I follow ethical guidelines set by the American Psychological Association, which condemns conversion therapy and similar harmful practices. As a therapist who grew up in and practiced in the San Francisco Bay Area, I can assure you that I have a lot of experience and a tender spot in my heart for LGBTQ+ people. My job is not to change you but to help you heal, recognize your strengths, and live authentically and joyfully.

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light skinned African American woman smiling with piercings, sitting close to white woman smiling at her

  • Won’t talking about all this bad stuff just make me feel worse?

Facing your challenges alone often makes things harder because you lack outside perspectives and support. I use Solution-Focused Brief Therapy to highlight your coping strengths and resources. Therapy should help you feel understood, supported, and empowered—not more isolated.

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  • I’ve had therapy before, and it made me feel more upset. What’s different about working with you?

My approach is interactive and collaborative. I encourage feedback to ensure our sessions are helpful. While we may explore uncomfortable topics, I help you develop grounding techniques and coping strategies to manage stress between sessions. My goal is to support you, not overwhelm you.

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You Deserve Affirming, Compassionate Support

If you are looking for an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist who is experienced, compassionate, and dedicated to your well-being, please contact me to see if it's a good fit. You are not alone in your journey, and you deserve to live a life filled with self-love, joy, and authenticity. Click the contact button below to start your healing journey today.

Where to Find Me

Where to Find Me

 

 

Providing online/virtual psychotherapy only in the state of California

Lisa S. Larsen, Psy.D.
(she/her/hers)

Appointments can be made by calling the office or submitting the contact form. Thank you, and I look forward to speaking with you soon!

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