Everyone deserves happiness, and this is especially true for those within the LGBTQ+ community. LGBTQ+ community members should have the ability to unpack feelings in a safe and non-judgmental space. From having access to individual counseling and couples therapy to dealing with more serious concerns such as depression and anxiety, therapy can be an integral part of promoting mental well-being.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, LGBTQ+ community members are more likely to experience substance abuse issues and self-harm behaviors. Other issues related to gender and sexual identity present more frequently. Further, LGBTQ+ community members often face discriminatory behavior in the workplace, within their own families and friend circles, and from society in general.
Because of increased discrimination and stigmatization, some LGBTQ+ community members never seek treatment or therapy, end their sessions prematurely, and never receive the support they need. Concerns such as gender dysphoria, identity issues, and more can compound this sentiment and keep individuals from completing treatment.
Marriage therapy and couples counseling offer important tools for building solid relationship foundations, establishing better communication, and rekindling that much-needed spark. LGBTQ+ relationships are no different, and many couples experience issues that are unique to the LGBTQ+ population that require a specialized level of training and experience.
While the gaps in therapy and treatment have closed over the years, there is still work to be done to ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals and couples receive the support they require for their diverse needs. Having a positive, empathetic approach is the key to success with therapy and treatment.
Susan Block, MS, LMFT works with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples to offer a safe and inviting space for therapy. With each couple, we strive to overcome obstacles to build better communication, deal with more serious issues such as infidelity and grief, and work towards forward-thinking, affirmative solutions together.
If you’d like to improve well-being through individual therapy, couples counseling, and marriage therapy, Susan Block can help. Susan offers confidential, convenient telehealth that can be done from the safety and comfort of your home. She offers Individual Therapy, Marriage & Couples Therapy, Relationship & Pre-Marital Counseling, and Individual Counseling for clients all over the state of Florida, including Fort Lauderdale and Broward County, Miami-Dade County and the greater Miami area, Palm Beach and Coral Springs. For more information, please feel free to contact us anytime.