What is 2SLGBTQ+ Therapy & why it's for EVERYONE!

Before explaining why 2SLGBTQ+ Therapy is for everyone, we need to define what it is.

What is 2SLGBTQ+ Therapy you ask? Part of explaining this, is explaining what 2SLGBTQ+ Therapy is not.

2SLGBTQ+ Therapy is NOT a space aimed to 'convince' or 'push' certain identities onto clients.

2SLGBTQ+ Therapy is NOT a space to exclusively talk about sexuality or gender exploration or questions.

2SLGBTQ+ Therapy CAN be a space to talk about sexuality or gender exploration.

2SLGBTQ+ Therapy CAN be a space to express some of the frustrations around heteronormative narratives.

2SLGBTQ+ Therapy IS a space free of assumptions that cisgender & heterosexuality identities is the default or norm.

AND clients do not need to disclose their identity in order for therapists' to work in an inclusive way and provide 2SLGBTQ+ Therapy. Here are some recommendations for therapists to integrate 2SLGBTQ+ affirming items into their practice:

• Offer your pronouns at introduction, and leaving space for clients to provide their pronouns at intake (but do not make it mandatory).

• Offering space to have clients be known/addressed by a chosen name.

• Not assuming the gender of someone's partner/partner(s).

• Not assuming the relationship dynamic of someone's intimate life.

• Valuing community/ connection & client's chosen family.

• For those who are exploring socially transitioning; offering space to try new pronouns and names with clients within the therapeutic space.

• Allowing clients to explore without judgement. Allow clients to "make mistakes", to be fluid; free of judgement.

• Being aware of 2SLGBTQ+ community resources and providing resources of2SLGBTQ+ agencies/ community as needed.

• Valuing the lived experience of clients, however taking time to do your own research and not treating your clients as the spokesperson/people for all members of a certain identity/community.

2SLGBTQ+ Therapy is more about dismantling some of the heteronormative/ cisgender narratives & norms that some therapists don't realize they project. 2SLGBTQ+ Therapy provides a space where exploring gender and sexuality are not taboo, but rather validated and normalized. As othering or ignoring 2SLGBTQ+ related topics can inadvertently discount and ignore real parts of client's identities. Ignoring parts of client's identities can further marginalize them and do the exact opposite of what therapy intends to do. 2SLGBTQ+ Therapy is essential because without this lens, practitioners can re-traumatize and further stigmatize clients, whether intentionally or not.

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