Exploring LGBTQIA+ Identities
Reflecting on yourself and who you really are is an important part of growth. In fact, it’s really normal and healthy to question your sexual orientation and gender identity. If you never asked yourself questions, how would you know who you really are?
And maybe you’re feeling a lot of pressure to figure it all out. This is pretty common. Regardless of your age, it’s likely that you’ve identified as cis-gendered and heterosexual for most of your life. This is due to heteronormativity.
Furthermore, heteronormativity is the societal idea that being cisgender and heterosexual is normal or the default. So, most people are brought up under the assumption that these are their identities. And when you start to realize this may not be true for you, it can cause confusion, anxiety, and avoidance.
In LGBTQ therapy, you will be given the time and space to question, process, and reflect.
Exploring your gender identity and sexual orientation can be a timely process. In fact, many LGBTQIA+ folks spend their whole lives exploring their identity. But, know that you don’t have to rush solidifying an identity or fitting into any particular group.
Our Approach to LGBTQ Therapy in Baltimore, MD
In LGBTQ therapy, you will meet with an LGBTQ affirming therapist whose focus is you. Our therapists will not only work with you on processing sexual orientation and gender identity but will help with any other concerns you are facing.
Being LGBTQIA+ is not all of who you are. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or overcoming trauma, your therapist can help with all of that while keeping in mind your current identity. They will help you put the pieces together of your identity while also working to create a mental wellness plan with you.
Common LGBTQ Questions and Experiences
People can come out or identify differently at any point in their lives. In fact, people come out in adulthood all the time. Part of this happens due to heteronormativity and its lifelong negative impact on folks. But, there is hope. Today, 1 in 6 members of Generation Z identify as LGBTQ. This implies that the idea of heteronormativity has lost power, and that acceptance is on the rise.
Regardless of age or time of life, coming out can be scary and difficult. On the other hand, it can also be relieving and exciting. As you can see, this experience evokes many emotions for each individual person going through it.
Here are some questions you may have found yourself wondering…
“I don’t feel comfortable being referred to as she/her or he/him anymore… Maybe they/them pronouns work for me. Could I be non-binary?”
“If I’ve been in love with someone of the opposite sex, but I date my same sex now, was I never in love with them? What does this mean about attraction?”
“I’ve never really felt comfortable in my body because I don’t identify with my gender. Is this what it means to be trans?”
“Even though I’ve never dated someone of my same sex, I don’t find myself emotionally inclined to date the opposite sex. But I can’t be gay. I’ve dated/married someone of the opposite sex.”
“I’ve always felt a strong emotional tie to same-sex couples in TV and movies, unlike the feelings I have toward straight couples. What does this mean?”
As you can see, exploring gender and sexuality brings up some complicated questions. And the most complicated part is that you must figure out these answers for yourself. But, with LGBTQ therapy, you’re not alone. An LGBTQ affirming therapist can help you process the questions that run through your head. They provide a safe space for you to think aloud and explore.
Hi! I’m Janel, the Care Coordinator for New Connections Counseling Center.
Coming Out as LGBTQ
The coming-out experience is unique for each individual. Due to social media, many people, both normal everyday folks and celebrities alike, choose to publicize their coming out. This can put a lot of pressure on others to come out in a similar way. But, your story is yours to protect and share.
Are you struggling with coming out anxiety? There is no rush to come out. And unfortunately due to our world’s continued homophobia, there are times and places that being out is unsafe. In LGBTQ therapy, we’ll discuss how to navigate being out and what that process looks like for you as an individual.
Begin LGBTQ Therapy in Baltimore, MD
The LGBTQ affirming therapists at our Baltimore, MD located counseling practice are ready to help you live authentically. They are passionate about helping people lead lives they are proud of. If this sounds like what you’re looking for, follow the steps below to get started.
- Connect with us using the appointment request form.
- Meet with a caring LGBTQ affirming therapist.
- Explore your truest self and live with pride.
Other Therapy Services at New Connections Counseling
At our Baltimore-based counseling center, we provide a variety of mental health services to help you make new connections. Our skilled therapists offer counseling for life transitions, trauma therapy and PTSD treatment, and EMDR therapy. Furthermore, they work with men and women individually as well as couples. And you can access our services from anywhere in the state using online therapy in Maryland. Whatever your counseling needs are, we know that you can find support at New Connections.
Blog Posts for LGBTQ Therapy
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Celebrate who you are with Pride in Baltimore! Whether you’re an LGBTQ person or an ally, let's unite for diversity, inclusion, and love. Here are 5 reasons (of many!) to celebrate Pride in Baltimore — and everywhere else on the planet! Pride celebrations take place...
How to Cope with the Challenges of the Holidays as an LGBTQ
For many, the holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, for those in the LGBTQ community, it can bring up a lot of stressors and difficult emotions. Learn how you can face the unique challenges of the holidays as an LGBTQ and still protect your mental health.
Looking for LGBTQ Therapy in Baltimore?
We’re here to help! Lot’s of ways you can reach us: call 410-801-9700, email us at info@