#DrewsViews: Tips for Finding a Queer-Friendly Therapist
It’s no surprise that 2020 has been a really difficult year for a lot of people. With all of the curveballs we’ve been thrown, I have no doubt that a lot of people have been struggling with their mental health, and have looked into seeing a therapist, counselor, or other mental health or support professional. While a lot of therapists are really great, there are some who might be biased in one way or another, including being transphobic, or just not know a whole lot about LGBTQ+ issues. As someone who started going to therapy in 2020, here are my 4 tips for finding a queer-friendly therapist!

Look for what you want

This sounds simple enough, but oftentimes people forget that there are a lot of options for people seeking mental health help. When looking up the counselors available to you, try using search terms such as “lgbtq,” “transgender,” or “queer friendly” to find people who publicize themselves as safe for LGBTQ+ people. You can also look into resources online, like databases that specialize in keeping track of available LGBTQ+ friendly counselors.

See what your local LGBTQ+ centers and universities have

My university has free short term counseling that is available for all of their students, and a lot of schools have programs like that. LGBTQ+ community centers, like The Center in Orlando, and JASMYN in Jacksonville, have counselors on staff who can help you. If not, they will know other counselors in your area and be able to connect you with resources.

Consider online therapy as an option

Studies show that it works just as well as in person therapy, and in this digital age, a lot of counseling has been done online. My therapy has been entirely online, and I have had a really good experience. Zoom therapy does have its limitations though, as certain therapy practices, like EMDR, do work better in person, but your online therapist can help you find an in person therapist if needed.

Ask around

A lot of times the best way to find a queer friendly therapist is to ask other queer people. Unfortunately, LGBTQ+ people have a high rate of mental health problems. While that isn’t good, it does mean that we tend to go to therapy. Try asking people in your community who they go to, or who they have heard good things about!

2020 has been a hard year, but therapy has been great for me, and therapy can make your 2021 a little easier. Happy holidays everyone!
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['Transgender', 'Therapist', 'Therapy', 'Mental Health', 'LGBTQ']