What is affirmative care?
Affirmative care embraces a positive view of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals. It does not view variations in gender or sexual orientation as disordered, pathological, or inferior, but instead recognizes variations in self-identity as normal. Affirmative care takes into account the roles of social, cultural, and biological factors in shaping who we are. This model also addresses the negative impact that homophobia, transphobia, and heterosexism have on the lives of LGBTQ+ people. Affirmative therapy will not attempt to change or "fix" who you are, but instead will allow you the space to explore your identity, uncover strengths, and develop confidence in yourself.
Affirmative care embraces a positive view of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals. It does not view variations in gender or sexual orientation as disordered, pathological, or inferior, but instead recognizes variations in self-identity as normal. Affirmative care takes into account the roles of social, cultural, and biological factors in shaping who we are. This model also addresses the negative impact that homophobia, transphobia, and heterosexism have on the lives of LGBTQ+ people. Affirmative therapy will not attempt to change or "fix" who you are, but instead will allow you the space to explore your identity, uncover strengths, and develop confidence in yourself.
Services Provided:
- Individual or Couples Therapy
- Concerns related to your gender identity or sexual orientation may be a primary or secondary reason for seeking out therapy. Perhaps you are wondering how/if/when to "come out" to family, friends, or colleagues. Maybe you are questioning your gender identity or sexual orientation and wish to have a safe, nonjudgmental space in which to explore it. Perhaps you and your same-sex partner are in need of couples counseling to address issues related to intimacy. These concerns, among others, are things I can help you with in therapy.
- Family Therapy
- Family therapy is particularly helpful for families that are trying to support a child who is questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity. It can also help in instances where a parent is taking steps to transition, and guidance is needed to navigate this process sensitively and effectively with regard to children and family structure.
- Family therapy will aim to provide psycho-education, resources, and support in an affirming, respectful environment.
- Pre-Surgical Evaluations
- Many patients who are seeking hormone replacement therapy and/or gender affirming surgery are referred to meet with a licensed psychologist prior to proceeding with transition-related medical care. All evaluations are performed according to the World Professional Association for Transgender Health Standards of Care version 8.0, which is considered the "gold standard" in transgender care guidelines. Recommendation letters in support of proceeding with transition-related care will be provided as appropriate.
