You’re questioning your sexuality or your gender.
You want support while you are on your journey to self-discovery.
It’s important that you find a safe space where you can process your feelings, come to terms with your sexuality and gender, and embrace your true self.
You have figured out what your sexuality and gender identity are. But, you’re struggling to come out” to your loved ones. You’re scared to come out to them. You are worried you may lose their love and support. But, you want to be authentic to and real, so you know you have to tell them. Or perhaps, you’re coping with guilt or shame regarding your sexuality and gender identity.
You’re looking for counseling with a therapist who fully accepts your sexuality or gender identity.
If you can relate to any of the above, then you’ve come to the right place. No judgments. No biases. Just a strong support system with open ears.
Quality Mental Health Services Are Important In The LGBTQ+ Community
A study on mental health and LGBTQIA+ adults found that approximately 4% of the adult American population identify as part of the LGBTQ+ Community. LBGTQ+ adults are more twice as likely as heterosexual adults to experience a mental health condition. LGBTQ+ individuals are at a higher risk than the general population for suicidal thoughts and suicidal attempts. High school students who identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual are almost five times as likely to attempt suicide compared to their heterosexual peers. 48% of all transgender adults report that they have considered suicide in the past 12 months, compared to 4% of the overall US population.
These are astounding statistics. Yet, counselors who specialize in working with this community can be hard to find in Central Illinois. But, I am an LGBTQ+ therapist. And, I am committed to helping clients of all genders, sexual identities and expressions feel not only safe but truly respected.
Common Mental Health Concerns in the LGBTQ+ Community:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Self-harm and suicidal thoughts/actions
- Grief
- Overwhelming stress
- Low self-esteem
- Strong emotions and mood changes
- Relationship issues
- Trouble adjusting to major life changes
These are all things that anyone would find stressful. But, counseling can help you process and work through these challenges and learn coping techniques to deal with future stress.
If you or someone you know is seeking help from an LGBTQIA+ therapist, contact me today. I would be happy to speak with you about how I can help.
Resources for the LGBTQ+ Community in Central Illinois
Bloomington, Illinois, and the surrounding area have several resources dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Below are a few I find helpful:
Prairie Pride Coalition: This organization is dedicated to the ideals of caring, compassion, respect, and understanding for all members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Parent, Families, and Families of Lesbians and Gays: PFLAG teaches that lesbians, bisexuals, gay and transgender people come from families from all corners of the earth, from every culture, and from every religious and ethnic group. They teach that sexuality and gender identity is not simply a choice one makes. And, it is not “just a stage” of development. PFLAG offers confidential support, information, and resources to all members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families.
Central Illinois Safe Schools Alliance: The goal of the east-Central Illinois Safe Schools Alliance (eCISSA) is to eliminate bullying of LGBTQ students. They aim to create a school environment where youth feel nurtured and safe to be themselves, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. They work with the Illinois Safe Schools Alliance (ISSA), to provide school staff and administration the information and tools necessary to create a safe atmosphere to promote youth education.
Pride at ISU: ISU This is Illinois State University’s on-campus student organization that caters to LGBT students as well as allies.
Begin LGBTQ+ Affirming Counseling in Bloomington, IL today!
I believe that everyone deserves access to quality professional mental health care. So, I offer LGBTQ+ affirming counseling in Bloomington, IL. To begin therapy in Central Illinois, follow these steps:
- Contact Bridge to Hope Counseling online or by call (309)455-5703 to set up a consultation call.
- Learn more about me and my approach to counseling
- Begin LGBTQIA+ therapy and work through your issues in a safe and welcoming space.
Other Services Offered at Bridge to Hope Counseling:
In addition to LGBTQ+ affirming counseling, I offer a variety of other counseling services in my Bloomington, IL therapy clinic. I also offer online therapy in Illinois. My counseling services include counseling for anxiety, depression therapy, therapy for poor self-esteem, counseling for college students, and counseling for life transitions. To best meet the emotional needs of my clients, all therapy services use a form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). For information on timely mental health issues, visit my blog! Please reach out to me today to learn more about the many ways I can help you live your best life!