Navigating Depression in the LGBTQ+ Community: How Therapy Creates a Judgment-Free Zone
Let’s talk about depression—it’s not just a case of the Mondays or a sad rainy afternoon. No, we’re talking about depression that sticks around like a bad roommate, stealing your joy and leaving you with the existential equivalent of unpaid rent. For LGBTQ+ folx, it’s not just the depression—it’s the societal baggage, the stigma, and…
The Role of Therapy in Supporting Trans Teens and Their Parents
Therapy plays a crucial role in helping trans teens navigate their gender identity, but parents of transgender teens often need support too! Parents of transgender teenagers are tasked with both supporting their teen, while also potentially navigating their own internalized beliefs about gender identity and re-envisioning outdated ideas about their child – making therapy a…
Ways to Support Your Trans or Gender Nonconforming Youth
Parenting is a journey filled with surprises and changes. When your child expresses that they are transgender or gender nonconforming, it can be a significant adjustment. However, this is also an opportunity to show unconditional love and support. Our therapists have worked with many families navigating this journey and your response can make a world…
Understanding the Unique Needs of LGBTQ+ Couples Therapy
Seeking out and locating a queer-affirming mental health counselor or therapist can require effort and persistence. Plenty of therapists in Chicago are trained to consider the uniqueness of their clients, and many intentionally welcome clients’ sexual orientations and relationships into the counseling space. However, not all queer-affirming counselors and therapists have the necessary competence or…
Understanding the Impact of Body Dissatisfaction and Body Dysmorphia on Mental Health in Gay Men
Body dissatisfaction and body dysmorphia in gay men is prevalent among the LGBTQ+ community in Chicago. While not unique to gay men, body dissatisfaction and body dysmorphia stem from the fact that our culture often idealizes Western beauty standards. This is particularly true in urban areas, like Chicago. The desire to conform to beauty standards…