MARY CATHERINE JESSEE THERAPY, LLC
LGBTQ+ Affirming Thearpy
My mission is to provide a safe and supportive environment for all LGBTQ+ individuals to explore and understand their identities, and to address any mental health concerns that may arise as a result of their sexual orientation or gender identity. As a queer-identifying therapist, I believe that everyone deserves to be accepted and loved for who they are. I strive to create a space where LGBTQ+ individuals can feel comfortable and empowered to do so with the support of a fellow queer-identifying person.
I am committed to providing LGBTQ+ affirming therapy that addresses specific mental health concerns that are unique to our community. These include, but are not limited to, gender dysphoria, internalized homo/transphobia, shame, anxiety, depression, chronic suicidal ideation, and addiction. My goal is to empower LGBTQ+ individuals to overcome these challenges and lead fulfilling lives. I will work with you to help you understand and accept yourself, and to gain the tools and support you need to navigate the world with confidence and pride.
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Safe and Affirming Space
LGBTQ+ affirming therapy is a type of therapy that is specifically tailored to meet the needs of individuals who identify as LGBTQ+. The aim of this therapy is to create a safe and accepting environment where individuals can explore their identities, work through any issues related to their sexual orientation or gender identity, and gain the tools they need to live happy, healthy lives.
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Gender Dysphoria
One of the main issues that trans and nonbinary individuals may face is gender dysphoria, which is the distress that a person feels as a result of the sex and gender they were assigned at birth. Gender dysphoria can lead to feelings of shame and isolation, and can negatively impact an individual's mental and emotional well-being. LGBTQ+ affirming therapy can help individuals work through these feelings and gain a greater sense of acceptance and understanding of their own gender identity.
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Internalized Stigma
Another issue that many LGBTQ+ individuals may face is internalized queerphobia. This refers to the internalized negative attitudes that individuals may hold about their own sexual orientation or gender identity. These negative attitudes can be a result of societal and cultural messages that stigmatize and discriminate against LGBTQ+ individuals. LGBTQ+ affirming therapy can help individuals work through these internalized negative attitudes and gain a greater sense of self-acceptance and self-love. I use the Gender/Sexual Minority Stress Model as a basis for this work.
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Living Authentically
In addition, many LGBTQ+ individuals may feel a sense of shame related to their identity. This can be a result of societal and cultural messages that suggest that being LGBTQ+ is something to be ashamed of. LGBTQ+ affirming therapy can help individuals work through these feelings of shame and gain a greater sense of self-worth and pride in their identity.