LGBT Issues therapists in Summerland, British Columbia BC, Canada CA
Zakary Zarichney
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BSW, SSC
Are you hoping to explore your identity further, or have you experienced struggles in doing so with more confidence? Do you feel that those around you are not accepting or hold hurtful beliefs? Do difficulties with identity or sexuality often have you feeling isolated, anxious, or low? Let's talk about this - get in touch for a free consultation to get started.
7 Years Experience
Ajay Sahota
Counsellor/Therapist, MA, RCC (Registered Clinical Counsellor)
LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, +) persons may encounter specific challenges (e.g., oppression and discrimination) related to their sexual orientation. These challenges may include norms and beliefs of family members, friends, church, and cultural customs. Social and cultural norms sometimes conflict with your own values, that of other cultures you belong to, and a sense of who you are.
Some communities maintain entrenched beliefs and stereotypes of LGBTQ+ persons. In those cases, there may be resistance to accept you because you do not meet certain cultural expectations. As a result, a LGBTQ+ person may feel shame, and low self-esteem and self-worth. These feelings can lead to depression and anxiety and you may withdraw from others to protect yourself from hurt and feel lonely at the same time.
When you grow up around negative attitudes or discrimination against a group people for their sexuality or gender, it may also be difficult to accept and express yourself for who you truly are. You may find it difficult to be curious about, and explore, your sexuality and identity. As a South Asian born man (he/him) in a second-generation immigrant family in Canada, I understand some of the complexities of culture, sexuality, and gender expression.
I am excited to support you on this journey. I celebrate and stand with you as a LGBTQ+ person.
9 Years Experience
Madison Chen
Counsellor/Therapist, MCP, RCC (Registered Clinical Counsellor)
Being gay, I am familiar with the struggles we so frequently encounter collectively as the LGBTQ+ community. I understand what it's like having to code-switch, to hesitate before introducing your own or your partner's pronoun, and the struggles and challenges related to coming out. Together, we can navigate through the heteronormative society that often has the unfair expectation for us to "fit in."
2 Years Experience
Alisa Kline
Counsellor/Therapist, MA Counselling, CCC
Welcome and congratulations on taking this first step to heal and change.
With empathy and in a safe space I will empower you to think of your circumstances and struggles in ways you may not have thought of on your own. Collaboratively, we will find solutions that will have positive outcomes.
13 Years Experience
Samantha Diminutto
Licensed Professional Counsellor, CCC, MPS-AT
Working with queer community (of which I am a part) is my jam. I love supporting humans who are taking the brave steps to navigate their gender and sexuality.
4 Years Experience