LGBT Issues therapists in Pontoon Beach, Illinois IL
LGBT Issues
Jessica Beaston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
People often experience feelings of isolation, particularly when grappling with identity issues and a lack of self-connection. Through our conversations, I offer a space for individuals to explore who they aspire to become and embrace their authentic selves with pride and confidence.
15 Years Experience
LGBT Issues
Tara Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
LGBT issues can have a significant impact on individuals dealing with addictions, relationship issues, or depression. Someone who is struggling with their sexual orientation or gender identity may experience discrimination, rejection, or internalized shame, which can contribute to feelings of isolation and exacerbate existing mental health concerns. As a therapist specializing in these cases, I would provide a supportive and affirming space for individuals to explore their feelings and experiences. I would help them navigate the challenges associated with their identity, such as coming out to loved ones or dealing with societal stigma. This might involve providing resources and referrals to LGBT-affirming support groups or organizations, facilitating discussions about healthy relationships and boundaries within the context of their sexual orientation or gender identity, and offering validation and encouragement as they work towards self-acceptance and empowerment.
9 Years Experience
LGBT Issues
Sushma Cheturvedula
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
I'd be there for someone dealing with LGBT issues by making sure they have a comfortable and supportive space to talk about what they're going through. We'd talk about any tough emotions or past traumas related to their identity or coming out journey, helping them figure things out and feel accepted. If they're struggling with PTSD from discrimination or past traumas, I'd help them manage those symptoms too. When it comes to relationships, we'd work on navigating the ups and downs, dealing with communication issues, and finding support from others in the LGBT community. The main goal is to help them feel confident in who they are, boost their mental health, and build strong, meaningful connections.
10 Years Experience
LGBT Issues
Dr. Sophia Aguirre
Psychologist, Ph.D., CGP, F-AGPA
I believe everyone deserves a judgment-free space to feel understood and to heal. I am passionate about creating an affirming and empowering therapeutic space that affirms all facets of your sexual and gender identity. I understand that members of the LGBTQ+ community face many of the same mental health concerns as the general population, but they also have a set of unique challenges that other communities don’t. Our queer and trans communities face unique stressors from living in a stigmatizing, heteronormative society. Living authentically in a world that’s not built for queer and gender diverse people can feel overwhelming — even impossible — at times. My goal is to create creating a safe and inclusive environment where you can focus on the concerns that bring you to therapy without fear of judgment, invalidation, or discrimination. I utilize bring an anti-oppressive approach to therapy that emphasizes the importance of understanding the effects of power, privilege, and oppression on the lives of our clients and our communities. With the use of culturally-affirming practice, I hope to empower you to be your most authentic self and to develop a deeper understanding and acceptance of your unique intersecting identities.
15 Years Experience
LGBT Issues
Dr. Walter J. Matweychuk
Psychologist, Ph.D.
When bias and discrimination are part of a person's problems, I show them how not to anger themselves and then how to address the prejudice and discrimination constructively. In cases where people are shameful about their sexuality, I teach them how to unconditionally accept themselves and never to shame themselves for who they are and what they like both sexually and non-sexually.
34 Years Experience