Brian Gieringer PhD LMFT

 The following are actual quotes From LGBT clients who worked with unprepared therapists: 

"When I 'came out' to my therapist, he all of a sudden wanted to focus on that as if it was a problem. But my sexuality isn't a problem for me. I was in therapy for other reasons and so now I feel awkward bringing up certain topics with him."

"I spent about six months training my therapist to understand my life."

"I had to explain differences in lesbian relationships vs straight relationships."

Studies of LGBTQ individuals seeking therapy indicate that there are still therapists who are either hostile to LGBTQ+ clients or lack knowledge of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer issues.

7 Things Your Therapist Should Already Know If You’re LGBTQ+

1. The impact of stress and stigma on the daily lives of LGBTQ people.

2. As a result of abuse, neglect, or bullying, LGBTQ youths and adults have higher rates of anxiety, depression, abuse, and suicide risk. 

3. LGBTQ older adults experience additional stresses resulting from the prejudices of earlier generations and the fact that most LGBTQ people age without children to support them. 

4. Queer people become involved in all kinds of relationships, including monogamous couples, open relationships, throuples and poly-relationships, deep friendships that may or may not be sexual. None of these relationships should make your therapist squirm.

5. Your therapist should be knowledgeable about the complexities of becoming an LGBT parent.

6. A competent therapist or counselor should already know and be comfortable with the facts, myths, and ins and outs of LGBTQ people’s sex lives. And you should feel comfortable talking openly and frankly about your sex life with your therapist.

7. A good therapist should be aware of the fluid, less restrictive ways gender can be experienced and expressed today.  

The bottom line is that you are entitled to a therapist who understands your issues in an environment that feels 100% safe and accepting.  

I'm Gay And a Specialist in LGBT Mental Health and Relationships

I'm a gay therapist, and I specialize in working with LGBTQ clients like yourself. Over 80% of my clients are gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender.  

I hope you'll consider letting me be your therapist. My office is a judgment-free, affirmative zone when you can be yourself and be accepted just as you are. 

If you're ready to start making improvements in your life or your relationships, contact me today to schedule an appointment.