LGBTQ Therapy: How to Find an LGBTQ Friendly Therapist
Have you ever felt that you needed professional help to navigate your feelings around your sexuality and sexual identity? Thus begins the journey to find a therapist who can support you as an LGBTQ individual. This search can lead you to discover the importance of finding an LGBTQ-friendly therapist and the unique challenges that LGBTQ individuals often face in accessing mental health services. In this blog post, we will explore the process of finding an LGBTQ-friendly therapist, the resources available for LGBTQ individuals in crisis, and the benefits of online therapy for the LGBTQ community.
Starting Your Search
Navigating the process of finding an LGBTQ-friendly therapist in Australia can be challenging. Still, it is crucial for LGBTQ individuals to feel safe and understood in therapy. According to recent data from the National LGBTI Health Alliance, LGBTQ individuals in Australia experience higher levels of psychological distress compared to the general population. In addition, they are more likely to experience anxiety and depression symptoms. These statistics underscore the importance of finding a therapist who is knowledgeable about LGBTQ issues (National LGBTI Health Alliance, 2021).
If you are unsure where to start, one of the best ways to find LGBTQ therapy is online through an online therapy platform or directory. Tools like Psychology Today, the Psychotherapy And Counselling Federation of Australia [PACFA], and Tribe Wellness make it easy for LGBT individuals to search for providers that match their personal preferences and requirements
The Australian Psychological Society published a study that found LGBTQ individuals often face discrimination and a lack of understanding from mental health professionals. This discrimination emphasises the need for LGBTQ-friendly therapists who can provide affirming and supportive care (Australian Psychological Society, 2019).
Ready for an appointment?
Finding the Right Therapist
When searching for an LGBTQ-friendly therapist in Australia, it is essential to consider their qualifications and experience working with LGBTQ clients. The Psychotherapy And Counselling Federation of Australia [PACFA] provides a referral service to help individuals find therapists with expertise in LGBTQ issues, ensuring that LGBTQ individuals can access competent and affirming mental health care.
Furthermore, LGBTQ individuals can access mental health services through organisations such as Twenty10 Incorporating GLCS NSW, which offers counselling and support services specifically tailored to LGBTQI+ people in New South Wales. This organisation plays a crucial role in providing a safe and supportive environment for LGBTQ individuals seeking mental health support (Twenty10 Incorporating GLCS NSW, 2021).
How Can LGBTQ Individuals Access Mental Health Services If They Are in Crisis?
In moments of crisis, LGBTQ individuals in Australia can access immediate support by contacting organisations such as QLife and Switchboard Victoria, which provide telephone and web chat support to LGBTQ individuals in crisis. These services offer confidential and non-judgmental support, ensuring that LGBTQ individuals experiencing a mental health crisis can receive the help they need (QLife, 2021; Switchboard Victoria, 2021).
What Are Some Specific Mental Health Resources Available for Australian LGBTQ Individuals?
In Australia, LGBTQ individuals can access mental health resources through organisations such as ACON, which offers a range of mental health programs, counselling services, and support groups specifically tailored to the needs of LGBTQ communities. Psychology Today, offers local information on support groups and counselling services for LGBT individuals. The Psychotherapy And Counselling Federation of Australia [PACFA] has a directory you can search to find therapists that meet your needs. Tribe Wellness, a leading practice based in Sydney, allows LGBT therapy clients to connect with a therapist wherever they are in Australia via telehealth. This flexibility enables LGBT clients to access convenient, confidential, personalised mental healthcare that matches their preferences and requirements.
What Are the Signs That Indicate a Therapist Is LGBTQ+-Affirming During the Initial Appointment?
During the initial appointment with a therapist in Australia, LGBTQ individuals can look for signs that indicate the therapist is LGBTQ+-affirming. These signs may include the therapist showing an understanding of LGBTQ-specific mental health issues, using inclusive language, and creating a welcoming and non-judgmental environment for the client. LGBTQ individuals can also inquire about the therapist's experience working with LGBTQ clients to ensure that they receive affirming and supportive care (Australian Counselling Association, 2021).
Online Therapy for LGBTQ Individuals
Online therapy has become increasingly popular in Australia, especially for LGBTQ individuals who may face barriers to accessing in-person therapy. According to a study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research, LGBTQ individuals reported high levels of satisfaction with online therapy, citing convenience and the ability to connect with LGBTQ-affirming therapists as significant benefits (Berryhill et al., 2019).
If you're having trouble finding a therapist who is knowledgeable and supportive of LGBTQ+ issues in your area, it might be worth considering online therapy. Many therapists now provide counselling through video telehealth, allowing you to access LGBTQ counselling from the comfort of your own environment anywhere in Australia.
In conclusion, finding an LGBTQ-friendly therapist is a crucial step in addressing the mental health needs of LGBTQ individuals in Australia. By utilising available resources, seeking support in times of crisis, and embracing alternative options such as online therapy, LGBTQ individuals can find the affirming and inclusive support they need to navigate their mental health challenges.
When you're ready to search for a therapist, reach out to a mental health professional through Tribe Wellness. Our accredited counsellors and therapists are here to help you thrive with the resources necessary to face life's unique challenges.
If you would like to learn more about therapy for yourself - book a free intro call here
Disclaimer: This blog article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your GP or qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Tribe Wellness is not an emergency or crisis service. If you need immediate support or feel unsafe because you are experiencing suicidal or self-harm thoughts, please contact Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467, Beyondblue 1300 22 46 36 or Lifeline 13 11 14. For emergency help, call 000.