Selecting A LGBT Psychotherapist Brooklyn

By Diane West


Nowadays, people are coming out about their sexuality but not everyone has the confidence to do so. Some are discriminated against in school and this leads to low self esteem and guilt that can even lead to suicide. However, you can talk to therapists about your sexual orientation. You need to be careful about the person you select since some are gay affirmative. The following is a guide on how to select an LGBT psychotherapist Brooklyn.

First, look for someone who understands and can relate to your life experience. A gay therapist is the best choice because he or she is going to make you feel comfortable. Such people are likely to open up about their sexual orientation. If they can do that, it means they will also be willing to listen and openly discuss your sexual life. Therefore, look for a gay therapist since they will create a safe environment where you can talk about issues that are facing you without fear.

Also, keep in mind that you should not overemphasize on the sexual orientation of the expert. Inquire about the background education, training, and experience. The person should not necessarily have all the knowledge in issues that affect LGBT persons. However, they should have knowledge and experience in the problems you are facing like guilt, depression and other sexuality issues.

Also, be wary of those psychotherapists who guarantee results. No one can cure homosexuality regardless of the efforts they put. Therefore, be cautious of those experts who make a lot of promises. After three months or more when you realize there is no change in your desires and behavior, your self esteem might be affected negatively. The person should only guide you to accept who you are and learn to cope with life not curing you.

Not every gay expert wants to talk about their sex life and others challenges they deal with. But it is only when the expert talks about issues like these freely that clients are able to open up about theirs too. So, you can call the person and or visit their office and see if their approach includes discussing issues regarding intimacy. If not, look elsewhere because you might not make any progress.

In addition, remember boundaries are very essential especially in the topic of sex. Although you and the psychotherapist are allowed to share about intimacy issues, be careful especially if your therapist is gay. No sexual behavior is allowed. It will be tempting but ensure to set clear boundaries since any sexual behavior or relation is a malpractice.

Moreover, get recommendations from the local gay and lesbian center. It is easy to find centers like these. They often know of a few psychotherapists who counsel LGBT people. Talk to these centers and get a few names and addresses. You friends also can be a trustworthy source of referrals.

Finally, if you commit to therapy, you will find personal comfort and learn to live a safe and healthy life. But you must keep in mind the knowledge of the above points since it is only when you find the right person you will enjoy the outcome of therapy.




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