The Role of Telehealth in Providing Affirming Therapy for Queer Adults
In a world where the only constant is change—and perhaps tensions between the Chicago mayoral office and City Counsel—the landscape of mental health care is evolving in ways that are particularly beneficial for queer adults. Telehealth therapy has emerged as a beacon of hope, breaking down barriers and offering a sanctuary of support tailored to…
Why Mental Health Matters: Supporting Your Trans Youth’s Emotional Well-Being
It’s no secret that navigating adolescence is tough, but for trans youth, the barriers are even higher—dealing with societal stigma, discrimination, and sometimes even a lack of support at home. But why do these challenges persist, and what can we learn from recent research to make things better? Transgender youth mental health is often challenged…
Exploring Muscle Dysmorphia Among Trans and Non-Binary People
Trans and non-binary people often face intense pressure around muscularity in gym culture and fitness spaces. Unfortunately, Chicago is no exception. A growing but less-recognized issue in these environments is muscle dysphoria—a distinct form of body image distress that disproportionately affects gender-diverse people. Muscle dysmorphia, sometimes referred to as muscle body dysmorphia, is a condition…
Navigating Monogamy: Challenges and Successes for Gay Men
Monogamy is often portrayed as a straightforward commitment, but for gay men in Chicago, it can involve navigating a unique set of challenges and opportunities. While the gay stereotype emphasizes open relationships or polyamory (and many queer relationships in Chicago are both healthy and non-monogamous), there are many gay couples who find deep satisfaction and…
Exploring Gay Open Relationships: Pros, Cons, and Considerations
The sexual agreements among many in the queer and LGBT community, particularly among gay men, have evolved significantly over the past few decades. Research since 2010 indicates that open relationships are becoming increasingly common among gay male couples. Studies (Whitton, SW., et al., 2019; Parsons, JT., et al., 2019) have shown that approximately 40-50% of…