My experience in New York City has allowed me to see people as they are, leaving behind the conformity of small town life to experience true public expression of queer and diverse culture. For those newly identifying with the queer community, this may be the first time to truly experience queer joy and pride in who you are. This may even be the first time you begin to question your own self-identity.
A first time experience outside of your hometown can be a daunting and intimidating location to find your self-identity. You may begin to see and question something you were raised to think of as taboo or wrong. You may have more questions popping up than answers. You may even continue to experience different levels of homophobia and transphobia in different spaces.
When we grow up in spaces or continue to exist in spaces where we do not feel accepted for who we are fully, we are experiencing trauma. Decoding and processing homophobic or transphobic ideas and statements - especially things that have been continuous throughout our lives - is essential to accepting yourself. Therapy can provide you with a save space to explore themselves, as well as their sexuality and gender.
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HOW THERAPY CAN HELP:
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As a therapist, I center my therapeutic approach on the fundamental principles of fostering self acceptance, cultivating self love, and encouraging self reflection. Within our sessions, I firmly believe that addressing and navigating through internalized homophobia, transphobia, body dysmorphia, gender dysmorphia, and similar challenges is an essential journey for every individual, regardless of their unique experiences. In a world characterized by the propagation of misinformation concerning matters of gender and sexuality, it's understandable that the emergence of questions can be disconcerting.
I acknowledge that many of the individuals I work with have encountered situations where their authentic selves could not be fully expressed, leading to experiences of trauma. Growing up in environments dominated by strict religious beliefs or in hometowns where being queer is met with resistance can have profoundly traumatizing effects. A particularly challenging aspect is reconciling with the homophobic or transphobic statements that have been directed at us throughout our lives – often by people we hold dear. Regardless of whether these statements were intentionally hurtful or not, the resulting trauma inflicted by family and loved ones can exacerbate the pain.
Through therapy, my objective is to guide individuals through the process of addressing these past traumas and building a foundation of self acceptance and self love. I strive to create a safe space where clients can explore their experiences, emotions, and thoughts without judgment. By navigating these painful memories and feelings, we can work towards healing the wounds inflicted by past interactions and pave the way for a journey of self-discovery, growth, and ultimately, a more profound sense of self-compassion.
