Lesbian-affirmative psychotherapy focuses on helping individuals heal from the negative impacts of growing up in a world that can be discriminating towards lesbians, queer women, and non-binary folks. From a lesbian-centric lens, this perspective increases one’s self-esteem, sense of self, and feelings of self-love by confronting the damaging effects of growing up in a world that is based on misogynistic, sexist, heterosexist, and homophobic ideals.
Coined lesbianphobia by Dr. Lauren in 2012, she recognized that this combination of unique circumstances experienced by lesbian, queer women, and non-binary lesbians needed to be addressed directly to heal this aspect of systemic trauma. Internalized lesbianphobia occurs when lesbians, queer women, and non-binary lesbians internalize these damaging concepts, leading to feelings of shame, guilt, and unworthiness that operate deep in the unconscious. While progress has been made for the LGBTQ community, the level one experiences and internalizes lesbianphobia can vary depending on various factors. To experience genuine self-love and liberation, therapy that affirms lesbian identities is crucial in helping individuals confront and overcome internalized shame and fear, leading to a more empowered and integrated sense of self. It provides valuable insights and practical techniques for overcoming internalized lesbianphobia, ultimately promoting the well-being, a more authentic sense of self, and happiness of lesbians and queer individuals.
If you have questions about our therapy services or would like to schedule an appointment, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
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