PTSD

Hello Wilton Manors!

I recently moved my boutique therapy practice to a quiet, cozy little office in Wilton Plaza, where I dedicate my time to help a small number of clients heal from emotional pain, gain new understandings about themselves, and/or achieve personal goals.

As we celebrate Labor Day, and many are out and about enjoying themselves, I thought I’d write a few words for those who may not be having as good a time, or those who have been struggling for a while, to remind you that you’re not alone:

Top 10 reasons LGBTQ+ clients reach out to me in Wilton Manors:

  1. Coming out: Coming out is the process of disclosing one's sexual orientation to others. It can be a difficult and stressful process, and it can lead to a variety of mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and social isolation.

  2. Internalized homophobia: Internalized homophobia is the negative attitudes and beliefs that some gay people have about themselves because of homophobia in society. It can lead to a variety of mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.

  3. LGBTQ+ discrimination: LGBTQ+ discrimination is the unfair treatment of people because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. It can lead to a variety of mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

  4. HIV/AIDS: HIV/AIDS is a chronic illness that can affect people of all sexual orientations. However, gay men are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS. The fear of contracting HIV/AIDS can lead to a variety of mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

  5. Relationship problems: Gay people can experience the same relationship problems as heterosexual people. However, they may also experience unique challenges, such as coming out to their partner, dealing with homophobia from their partner's family and friends, and navigating the unique legal and social landscape of same-sex relationships.

  6. Body image: Gay people can experience the same body image issues as heterosexual people. However, they may also be more likely to experience body dissatisfaction because of the unrealistic beauty standards that are often portrayed in the media. This can lead to a variety of mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.

  7. Parenting: Gay people may face unique challenges, such as coming out to their children, dealing with homophobia from their children's school and community, and navigating the legal and social landscape of same-sex parenting.

  8. Trauma: Gay people may be more likely to experience trauma because of homophobia and discrimination. This can lead to a variety of mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

  9. Stress: Gay people may be more likely to experience stress because of homophobia and discrimination. This can lead to a variety of mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and sleep problems.

  10. Suicide: Gay people are more likely to attempt suicide than heterosexual people. This is likely due to the unique challenges that gay people face, such as homophobia, discrimination, and internalized homophobia.

Emotional pain doesn’t take a holiday. Whether it’s Labor Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas or just Tuesday, whether you live in Wilton Manors or Alaska, whether you’re rich or just getting by, it’s important to know that you’re not alone — and that therapy can help.

Life’s too short to spend it suffering.

Be well.