What Does "Affirming" Mean?
A number of counselors/therapists or other professionals describe themselves as LGBTQ+ Affirming. But what does this exactly mean?
Affirming an identity
Affirming an identity or an experience simply means I accept, encourage, validate, and defend it against those who challenge it. This doesn't mean I simply "tolerate" it or that I only recognize it in some cases. If you ask me, that might seem easy to do ("I accept all people!"). But in today's society, as we increase our awareness of how frequently identities and/or experiences are challenged, the more important is to push back on the pervasively oppressive context they try to exist in.
Affirming an identity simply means I recognize that no matter how much we embrace, understand, or participate in it, we are still part of a mainstream culture that tries to erase it.
The LGBTQ+ AFFIRMING THERAPY
As an affirming therapist/counselor, I consider the real impact of oppression on emotional issues that bring you to therapy. I also recognize that some "issues" are pathologized simply because they exist within a culture of oppression. Or, in other words, it's not you - it's them.
I embrace my own identity these days, and there are many ways that I participate in others' experiences. Having this understanding is one of the essential requirements of being affirming.
Awareness is a great start. Taking action is even better.
There are many ways I can learn to balance the default cis-het existence and embrace each person's individuality as unique. It can be as straightforward as seeking out the work of queer artists and authors or supporting queer-owned trades and entrepreneurs.
Listening to and learning from others in marginalized communities broadens our world experience and helps us actively counter assumptions. It is harder to have a default when exposed to so many different identities.
As an affirming therapist, I train and consult with queer, trans, and other allied professionals in my field. I stay up to date on research, books, and topics related to LGBTQ+ experiences. To me, this is not a one-time training that I can take; it is an ongoing intention to practice to learn and listen.
Being affirming means that I work incrementally to de-center the mainstream and harbor space for a multitude of identities. It means I recognize that society defaults to one acceptable way of being and perpetuates oppression toward everyone else. Designing an affirming setting means I put marginalized identities at the center rather than leading with the context constructed by other people for them.
This is a work in progress, though as long as I recognize my own aptitude - and even limitations - for understanding marginalized experiences, I will continue to create space for everyone.
More Information:
Recommendations for Use of Affirmative Psychotherapy With LGBT Older Adults
Here are some questions that you may want to consider in your first session to ask your new therapist:
Can you describe your own professional orientation to therapy?
Can you explain how you plan to provide support and understanding for me?
What kind of training or experience do you have working with LGBTQIA+ clients in your practice?
What is the approach that you are working with in regard to LGBTQIA+ clients?
What is your view of LGBTQIA+?
How do you work with other clients who present with similar issues as me?
Building Awareness 🪴
As an LPC, I offer a range of therapy, from individual counseling to intervention and specialized therapy for complex emotional challenges.
Whether you're navigating the ups and downs of relationships, seeking guidance, or looking for family therapy, my practice is here to address all your needs with exceptional care.
