LGBTQ AFFIRMATIVE Counseling

Unfortunately, the history of discrimination and the associated shame concerning LGBTQ identities has meant that many mental health professionals are poorly informed about LGBTQ issues and are unfamiliar with appropriate terminology and acceptable language.  Stigma and discrimination based on sexual orientation and (or) gender identity have a tremendous impact on the mental health of LGBTQ people. Sexual and physical assault are also risk factors for mental health issues, as is bullying for youth. Risks for LGBT youth can be reduced by family acceptance and connection with other LGBT youth.  In fact, LGBT youth who come from highly rejecting families are more than three times as likely to have attempted suicide than LGBT peers who reported no or low levels of family rejection.  We make a continued, conscious effort to educate ourselves on the polyamorous population and their unique counseling needs, taking into account the deep mistrust this population may have of professionals. We actively work to challenge negative stereotypes and advocates for the needs of this often marginalized population. The American Medical Association, the American Psychological Association, and the American Psychiatric Association all have position statements stating the critical importance of access to care for transgender and gender-variant people.

Philly Psychology is an LGBTQ competent and polyamory-informed practice. Our approach embraces a positive view of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) identities and relationships, and addresses the negative influences that homophobia, transphobia, and heterosexism have on the lives of LGBTQ clients. Philly Psychology accepts the polyamorous relationship style as a valid and valuable lifestyle. We make a continued, conscious effort to educate ourselves on the polyamorous population and their unique counseling needs, taking into account the deep mistrust this population may have of professionals. We actively work to challenge negative stereotypes and advocates for the needs of this often marginalized population.