phone 403.861.0164 ccpsychologist@proton.me
LGBTQ2S+ Affirming Therapy
I am an LGBT2Q+ affirming therapist which means that I approach therapy in a way that embraces a positive view of LGBTQ2S+ identities and relationships, and that acknowledges/explores the negative impact that homophobia, transphobia, and heteronormativity can have on our lives. I believe it is also important to be mindful that sometimes the issues that bring us to counselling have nothing to do with our sexual and/or gender identity. Affirming therapy means that you are working with someone who is a part of the community and understands the nuances of the LGBTQ2S+ community.
For over 20 years, I have worked with people who were addressing issues that are often unique to someone who lives with an LGBTQ2S+ identity. Having a supportive, affirming, and nonbiased person in your life can be helpful.
For example during my employment with Centre for Sexuality (1995-2005), I worked with colleagues to regularly facilitate a psycho-educational group for women entitled, “Questioning Your Sexual Orientation”. In 2007 I completed my M.Sc. thesis research which focused on the experiences of people who express non-conforming gender identities. Although the language has evolved since I did that research, the findings of the research are still relevant today. Click here to read a published paper from my research.
*LGBTQ2S+: Is meant to include all minority sexual and gender identities including but not limited to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and Two Spirit.
Resources:
Calgary Outlink: Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity
Comprehensive list of of LGBTQ+ Term Definitions
Am I Gay? A Guide for People Questioning Their Sexual Orientation
Trans Life Line – Peer Support Hotline
World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) Standards of Care
