rainbow under a bridge

SOGIE

SOGIE

Sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression are rich opportunities to introspect, question, and forge new directions.  With therapy, you shed predetermined boxes and walk this unique journey with advocacy along the way.  The goal is to help you find self-acceptance, resiliency, and an opportunity to celebrate sexual and gender diversity.  There are also specific needs, because your path will be unique.  Our work will clarify what that looks like. 

“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bulb was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.”
—Anais nin

expressions

expressions

Sexuality and gender do not have to be the primary focus of therapy.  Other factors may need attention like stress, relationship challenges, anxieties, or trauma.  Whatever brings you through the door can be addressed in a welcoming, affirming partnership.

SEXUAL ORIENTATION

  • Find a community where your orientation is recognized and respected as an important part of who you are and deeply rooted in biological hardwiring. 
  • Develop strategies for dealing with complex responses from partners, family, friends, work and/or school, the health and legal systems, and faith based communities.
  • Address underlying individual needs that are part of a bigger picture between you and your partner.  Find new ways to connect, support, and play together.   Special considerations will be given to additional contextual factors such as our socio-political climate..
  • Build resiliency around the harmful ignorance from others that creates a continuum of shame and fear.  This will include identifying precautionary measures that promote safety from harassment or assault.
  • Address forms of microaggressions that can reside within you.
  • Prepare for disclosures, determining who to tell and when, how to best represent your experience, and ways to skillfully handle others’ responses.

GENDER IDENTITY AND EXPRESSION

  • Explore what facets make up your identity, including personality, family influences, values, cultural pressures, and disowned parts of yourself.
  • Resist the myth that there is a “typical” gender experience or a hierarchy of legitimacy based on specific criteria (ex: procedures undergone).
  • Determine how to bridge a very vulnerable, private process with those who will be impacted by the changes that may occur.
  • Build resilience when facing external pressures.
  • Gain awareness of the limits and possibilities with various medical procedures. In addition, letters for gender congruence surgery will be provided upon request and when appropriate.  
  • Develop skills to handle awkward situations (ex: medical professionals, general social encounters)
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