LGBTQ / Gay Men’s Counselling

I specialise in working with the LGBTQ community, offering an inclusive and supportive space for clients to explore issues related to their sexuality, gender identity, and other related concerns. As a member of this community myself, I understand first-hand the complexities and challenges that come with being part of a marginalised group and I am committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for clients to have their stories heard and validated. Clients are invited to explore a wide range of issues including; their sexual identity, coming out to family, friends, or co-workers, struggling with self-acceptance and self-esteem, dealing with internalised homophobia/shame, coping with discrimination, prejudice, or hate crimes, navigating the complexities of dating and relationships, processing religious trauma, exploring gender identity and gender expression. Many of my clients also find great value in unpacking romantic idealism and unrealistic projections, coping with love & loss, as well talking through the myriad of stressors and anxieties related to social, political, and cultural pressures. Some wish to spend time reflecting on the struggle to fit into heteronormative roles & expectations, whilst others may choose to take a deep dive into becoming more mindful of their triggers for acting out/self sabotage or overcoming the challenges of aging and social isolation through exploring what matters most to them. Whatever the challenge, I offer a safe and affirming space for all my clients to explore their concerns and develop coping strategies that help build resilience, confidence and self-acceptance.

As an LGBTQ person, you may face unique challenges related to your identity, such as coming out, dealing with discrimination or stigma, or feeling isolated or disconnected from your community. I can help you explore your identity and find a greater sense of self-acceptance and belonging. One of the most common challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals is the process of coming out. I offer a safe and supportive space to explore your feelings and emotions surrounding coming out, and can provide guidance and support as you navigate this process. If you are already out, but struggling with acceptance from friends, family, or society, I can help you find ways to cope with this rejection and develop strategies to build a supportive network of allies. I am also well-aware of the unique challenges faced by gay men. These may include navigating the complexities of dating and relationships, coping with body image issues, and dealing with discrimination or marginalization within the LGBTQ community itself. Additionally, our community may face discrimination and marginalization in political and religious contexts, which can further impact our sense of identity and belonging.

One of the most pervasive and challenging issues for the LGBTQ community is the experience of shame and internalized homophobia. Growing up in a society that often stigmatizes and marginalizes LGBTQ individuals, we may internalize negative messages about our sexuality and feel ashamed of our desires and attractions. This can lead to a whole range of negative outcomes, including feelings of isolation, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Internalized homophobia can also lead to self-destructive behaviors such as substance abuse, risky sexual behaviour, and unhealthy relationship patterns. To address this issue, it is important for LGBTQ people to seek out supportive and affirming communities where they can feel accepted and valued. Counselling can also be helpful in unpacking and challenging internalized homophobia and developing a stronger sense of self-acceptance and self-love. Practicing self-compassion, mindfulness, and self-care can also be effective tools for combating shame and building resilience.

For many LGBTQ people, spirituality can be a source of comfort and connection, but it can equally be a source of conflict and pain. As a gay person of faith I always felt like I had to come out of two closets; coming out gay in the church, and coming out a person of faith in the LGBTQ community - honestly, to this day, I don’t know which was harder - but I found wonderful people in both the church and the LGBTQ community who helped me through. I am passionate about working with clients of all spiritual or religious backgrounds. I can help you explore your beliefs and values in a non-judgmental way and find a sense of peace and acceptance within yourself. Whether you're struggling with reconciling your sexuality or gender identity with your faith, feeling disconnected from your spiritual community, or simply wanting to explore your beliefs and values more deeply, I offer a safe and supportive space to do so. I will work with you to help deepen your spiritual practice, reconcile your faith with your sexuality or gender identity, and discover new ways of caring for your soul. I am here to help you on your journey. Please don't hesitate to reach out.

Another key issue facing many gay men is the struggle to form authentic connections with partners and friends. In a society that often values superficial qualities such as physical attractiveness, wealth, and status, it can be challenging for gay men to find genuine connections based on shared values, interests, and emotional intimacy. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and disconnection. To address this issue, it is important for gay men to prioritize building meaningful relationships based on mutual respect, trust, and vulnerability. This can involve being open and honest with others about one's feelings and desires, actively seeking out community and social support, and being willing to take risks and be vulnerable in new relationships. Therapy can also be helpful in addressing any underlying issues that may be inhibiting one's ability to form authentic connections with others.

Loneliness and isolation are common issues that affect many members of the LGBTQ community. We often feel like we don't fit in with our straight peers or don't have anyone who can fully understand our experiences. The impact of loneliness and isolation on mental health cannot be overstated. LGBTQ people who feel isolated may experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. They may also turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse or compulsive behaviors, in an attempt to deal with their feelings of loneliness and disconnection. In counselling, LGBTQ people can explore these feelings of loneliness and isolation in a safe and supportive environment and develop healthy coping strategies for dealing with these difficult emotions.

Navigating relationships can be challenging for anyone, but LGBTQ individuals may face additional stressors related to their sexual orientation or gender identity. Together, we can explore whatever is happening for you right now which may include; issues related to romantic relationships, friendships, and family dynamics. Whether you're dealing with conflicts with your partner, struggling to come out to your family, navigating the dating scene, or feeling disconnected from your friends/family, I offer a safe and supportive space to work through your challenges. I can also help you navigate issues related to other significant relationships in your life. This may include exploring ways to come out to your loved ones, setting boundaries with unsupportive or difficult family members, creating strategies to become more empowered in your personal/ work life, or finding ways to build stronger connections with your chosen family or support network. Overall, my goal is to help you develop stronger, healthier relationships with the important people in your life. If you're struggling with relationship issues, please don't hesitate to reach out.