LGBTQIA Affirming Therapy in Atlanta, GA

Image of a group of 4 people having a picnic in the park. Representing that anyone is welcome at LGBTQIA therapy in Atlanta, GA. With the right LGBTQ therapist near you in Atlanta, GA you can start getting LGBTQ counseling tailored your needs.

You may know your sexual or you might be seeking support while you figure it out. You may not want to discuss your orientation but need to know that the person sitting across from you affirms your identity.

Although social acceptance of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, and other unnamed (LGBTQIA+) identifying persons has improved, there continue to be spaces that do not fully accept individuals who are not Cisgender heterosexual. It is important for you to feel acknowledged and recognize your place in society. To be treated fairly. To find your feet and to fully embrace yourself despite the noise around you.

We recognize that the states we serve, Georgia Florida, and Louisiana, can be difficult places to live for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Our LGBTQ therapists provide quality inclusive services and a safe space to discuss the unique challenges of walking in their identity.

Select An Affirming LGBTQ Therapist

LGBTQIA Therapy at Simplicity Psychotherapy

It has been shown in studies that persons in the LGBTQIA+ community are reluctant to access healthcare, including mental health as they fear they will only be seen for their sexuality. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to locate queer-affirming LGBTQ therapists, even in Atlanta. This should not deter you from asking for help as there are many providers that are willing to hear you and listen. We provide services to help you to reach this point and to find effective ways to manage your life whether that be communicating in relationships or combating feelings of low mood and anxiety.

Simplicity Psychotherapy Focuses on The Whole Person

You may choose to discuss or not discuss their sexual orientation or gender expression as you chose. Your goals in LGBTQIA therapy are based on what you identify as your concern rather than focusing on a factor of your identify. If it is relevant to you, please discuss. If not, that’s fine too.

Image of a black trans woman smiling standing in front of water. Representing someone who could benefit from LGBTQ therapy in Atlanta, GA. Whether for depression or anxiety an LGBTQ therapist can give support to you through LGBTQIA therapy.

Challenges that the LGBTQ Persons May Face

Negative Attitudes, stigma and discrimination are a major contributors to poor mental health and negative coping mechanisms experienced within the

- - Minority Stress - Marginalized groups are more likely to develop mental health conditions. LGBTQ folx are made more vulnerable to psychological distress and other health problems as a result of repeated exposure to discrimination and prejudice.
  - Identity Concerns - You may feel as though you must keep your identity and sexuality a secret. You may also struggle to process your own emotions and feelings as you may be alone or unsure of how you identify your sexuality or gender. This can lead to low self-esteem, isolation, and or depression.
  - Loss of family and friends – Unfortunately many continue to struggle with accepting members of the LGBTQIA+ community. If you do decide to share your identity or sexuality with friends or family this can cause tension in those relationships. Because of you may many fear rejection and being shunned from environments you once belonged to.
  - Discrimination - The LGBTQIA+ community faces continuous discrimination in education, housing, healthcare, and many other sectors of society. Those who face this discrimination can experience feelings of distress and constant worry in their life.

Common symptoms of depression and anxiety:

- - If you’re struggling with low self-esteem
  - Lack of concentration and motivation
  - Isolating oneself
  - Suicidal or harmful thoughts
  - Changes in appetite (increase or decrease)
  - If anxiety is interrupting your day-to-day routine
  - Feeling restless or the opposite- having low energy
  - Constant low mood

It can be hard for anyone to feel accepted and at times, it is hard to accept yourself. When your identity is challenged and turned into talking points, it is no wonder the community faces high levels of mental health concerns. Such as depression, anxiety, and trauma.

Image of two women hugging while meeting with an affirming LGBTQ therapist in Atlanta, GA. LGBTQIA therapy and LGBTQ counseling is open to everyone regardless of your identity.

Every therapist affiliated with Simplicity Psychotherapy proudly affirms and serves all gender, sexual, or relationship minorities (GSRM).

Counseling Can Help Mental Health in the LGBTQ Community

Depression and anxiety are the most common mental health disorders in the United States. It is estimated that 30 to 60% of the LGBTQIA+ community experiences depression or anxiety at some point in their lifetime. That includes 12% who identify as Black. In Georgia alone, 65% of residents identifying as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender report experiencing depression in the last two weeks. A person facing challenges such as the above should know that there is help available out there to assist with education and management of mental health symptoms and to help to begin recovery.

Benefits of Seeking Therapy as a member of the LGBTQIA+ Community

LGBTQ therapy helps individuals deal with past and present trauma. Individuals who have not yet come out to their friends and family need therapy services to receive the support and encouragement they need to come out. Additionally, working with a counselor helps process the feelings that may arise after coming out. In our experience, these may be feelings of relief and joy as well as the more readily assumed feelings of rejection.

LGBTQIA Therapy also provides:

- - Assistance as you affirm your identity
  - A non-judgmental safe space for you to express yourself
  - You find support in the challenges you face
  - Coping methods to deal with the feelings you may be experiencing
  - Help to improve well-being, self-esteem and confidence

Our Georgia Therapists Can Help

Simplicity Psychotherapy offers a range of evidence-based psychotherapies to help you combat depression and anxiety. These are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). All of which are proven to support someone dealing with various mental health concerns. Our wish is to help you find a firm footing and to treat you with the respect and equality you deserve. Our therapists can help you to find the right treatment. As well as provide you with the strategies and support you need to live a rich, full, and meaningful life.

Start LGBTQIA Therapy in Atlanta, GA

Whatever your reason for seeking LGBTQ counseling Simplicity Psychotherapy is here for you. Whether you are dealing with symptoms of depression and anxiety, trying to process past trauma, or wanting support related to your sexuality we have an affirming LGBTQ therapist who can support you. If you are ready to get support tailored to your mental health needs then follow these steps.

1. 1. Reach out to speak with one of our compassionate staff members
  2. Make an appointment for LGBTQIA therapy in Atlanta
  3. Get understanding and compassionate support

Select An Affirming LGBTQ Therapist

Other Counseling Services We Offer in Atlanta, GA

At Simplicity Psychotherapy, we offer affirming LGBTQ counseling for individuals and couples. We specialize in therapy for Black men and women. For partners, we offer relationship counseling, premarital counseling, and marriage counseling. While for individuals we offer support for depression, grief, and anxiety.