For many LGBTQ teens, therapy can be a valuable resource that can help them navigating the challenges of adolescence and deal with the unique stressors that come with their sexual orientation or gender identity. According to The Trevor Project, “48% of LGBTQ youth reported they wanted counseling from a mental health professional but were unable to receive it in the past year.”
At My Denver Therapy, our Denver therapists for LGBTQ+ teens are here to help you or your teen. Here are a few ways therapy can help:
- Building a supportive relationship: For many LGBTQ teens, finding a supportive adult can oftentimes be a challenge, especially one that’s outside of their home. A therapist can provide a safe space where teens can talk openly about their experiences and feelings. This relationship can help build trust and provide a sense of security that can be so needed in this experience of life.
- Coping with discrimination: 75% of LGBTQ youth reported that they had experienced discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity at least once in their lifetime. Many LGBTQ teens face discrimination and harassment from peers or family members. Therapy can help teens develop coping strategies to deal with these experiences and build resilience in different contexts.
- Exploring identity: Adolescence is a time when many teens are exploring their identity and figuring out who they are in the moment. For LGBTQ teens, this can be an especially complex process for them. Therapy can provide a space for teens to explore their gender identity or sexual orientation and feel supported in that process and where it might lead.
- Managing mental health: LGBTQ teens are at a higher risk for mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Therapy can provide tools and strategies to manage these conditions and improve overall emotional well-being.
- Finding community: Many LGBTQ teens feel isolated and alone, and like they don’t have many people they can fully trust. Therapy can help teens connect with others in the community, talk to someone, and find supportive resources.
Overall, therapy can be a powerful tool for LGBTQ teens as they navigate the challenges of being a teen and explore their identity. If you or someone you know is struggling, reaching out to one of our Denver therapists can be a great first step.
