As an individual and a mental health provider, I find it disturbing that we are in the 21st century and we are still living in such a homophobic and transphobic world. We know that there have been people who have different genders and sexual orientations since the beginning of times; so why do we keep discriminating against them? Truthfully we probably have a lot more in common with them than we think. They are people who have jobs and families and do the same mundane things that we do on a daily basis. They are humans and they want to be loved and respected like everybody else. Why do we need to be so caught on on their gender expression or who they want to love or be with???
It saddens me to see my clients feel scared to “come out” and loose a loved one. Or not be able to invite theirs partners to family affairs. I feel grateful that I was raised in a tolerant environment where my parents modeled a positive regard for people who have different genders or sexual orientation.
I grew up in the 1970’s and 80’s (C’mon, I am not that old…haha…) and we had a live-in housekeeper who was a transgendered person. That was uncommon at the time but it was not an issue for my father and that attitude rubbed off on me. I also remember my other grieving the death of a gay friend who died of AIDS. I remember us dancing with him in the living room.
Unfortunately non-conforming people and sexually diverse people have essentially grown up and live in an intolerant world that does not feel safe and often encountering discouraging messages and hostile behaviors that create the experience of repeated trauma that leads to shame and fear which create anxiety and those who suffer from repeated trauma may have more severe symptoms of depression and anxiety that may lead to C-PTSD. TGNC people have a disproportionately high rate of mental illness that is influenced in part by lack of societal support.
TGNC people have been shown to have high levels of suicidal ideation and as many as 50% have attempted suicide in their lifetime. They are often the victims of hate crimes and at least 25% have reported being attacked in their lifetime.
Those who live on a more diverse gender spectrum are still placed into discrete “boxes” regarding their sexual orientation. It is important to understand that sexual orientation can present in many forms and can be fluid over time.
In addition to my multicultural and diverse background, I have also experienced prejudice and disclination so I can empathize with their challenges and I really support and enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ and TGNC people.
So come as you are, I am waiting for you! You will be welcomed, supported and empowered on your journey toward self-love, self-worth, self-compassion and healing!
Warmly,
Miriam
Starting therapy is not easy, it takes courage, so if you are ready to get started, call or email me to schedule your initial FREE 20 minute phone consultation at (858)842-0234 or miriam@miriamchorfreitas.com
