The Benefits of LGBTQ+ Counseling

People who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer or questioning (LGBTQ+) are more likely to experience trauma, discrimination, and victimization than those who are heterosexual and cisgender. As a result, members of the LGBTQ+ community are at greater risk for many mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress disorder, and suicidal thoughts.

Our professionals here at Hudson River Care and Counseling understand these adversities well and have the necessary training to help LGBTQ+ patients not only cope but thrive. 

In-person or virtually, we create a safe, supportive environment where patients can openly explore their experiences, feelings, and fears, whether about coming out, past trauma, discrimination, or family acceptance. 

Our providers have seen firsthand the transformative benefits of LGBQT+ counseling. Here’s what we want you to know.

Counseling benefits the LGBTQ community 

While there’s been progress in recent years, the LGBTQ community still faces discrimination and inequality. And unfortunately, mental health problems are common, especially among adolescents. A 2021 study released by the CDC showed that nearly one-quarter of LGBTQ+ students were bullied at school. 

If you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community, chances are you’ve encountered harassment, bullying, discrimination, or civil rights struggles. Any of these can impact your mental health and prevent you from comfortably being your true self and enjoying a fulfilling life.

Our counselors help LGBTQ+ patients examine their feelings and develop coping skills. 

Other factors

Along with identifying LGBTQ+, you may find counseling benefits you in other aspects of your identity. For example, teens are more likely to experience depression, and LGBTQ+ teens are six times more likely to have depression than their peers who don’t identify as LGBTQ+. Counseling is an effective treatment approach and could be a key to early intervention that preserves mental health. 

Your race, ethnicity, language, physical ability, and other demographic factors can mean that you face additional discrimination or marginalization. All of the different components of your identity can impact mental health, and support from an expert who can ​​recognize and validate the experiences you face is important. 

What to expect from counseling

Discussing your concerns and questions with one of our qualified counselors allows you to explore your identity, leading to improved self-acceptance and greater confidence. 

At Hudson River Care & Counseling, we offer collaborative treatment planning, unhurried appointments, and personalized attention focused on your well-being. Our mission is to provide services promoting personal growth and mental health. 

Individual counseling, couples counseling, and gender dysphoria services are some of the services our LGTBQ+ patients choose most often. Navigating life is difficult, but not fitting traditional ideas of gender and sexuality makes it more challenging. Having support and advocacy helps. 

Tools for living 

Mental illness is on the rise globally. Tools such as counseling and therapy can help you cope with daily challenges and barriers. The context of your identity is crucial to how you cope and what tools you need.

Schedule your appointment at our Hoboken or Teaneck offices, or schedule a virtual appointment. Our staff is happy to answer your questions.