Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning (Queer), Intersex, Asexual +
Whilst it is absolutely normal to question your sexual orientation or gender identity, societal acceptance of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans gender people, although improving in the main stream, is by no means fully recognized and assumed by all. Feeling lonely, isolated, rejected, misunderstood or pressured to conform, are just a few of the experiences and emotional challenges inherent to being LGBTQIA+.
Defining the Terms
LGBT, LGBTQ, or LGBTQIA+ are acronyms and here is a brief synopsis of what each letter means with some other relevant terms and definitions: –
L – Lesbian: Women who are attracted to other women
G – Gay: Men who are attracted to other men
B – Bisexual: People who are attracted to both other women and men
T – Trans: People who feel like they were born into the wrong body. So, if someone was born with the body of a boy, they might actually feel like a girl on the inside. The opposite orientation is naturally possible too. Another terms for Trans Gender is Gender Dysphoria : the unremitting sense of unhappiness experienced when the inner understanding of gender is other than that ascribed at birth be you either a boy or a girl.
Q – Questioning: Some people are unsure about their sexual orientation. They may describe themselves as “questioning”.
Q – Queer: Reclaimed derogatory slang by many who reject gender and sexual binaries. Also used as a political identity by many who want to dismantle oppressive systems in society.
I – Intersex: A general term used for a variety of bodies in which a person is born with reproductive or sexual anatomy that does not fit into the sex binary.
A – Asexual: – Umbrella term for those to tend not to have a sexual desire towards others; asexuals may experience romantic attractions and engage in sexual behavior.Non-Binary – “Non-binary” is generally used as an umbrella for various gender nonconforming identities, and is most often used by those who do not strictly identify as “male” and “female.”
Pansexual – One who can feel an attraction to anyone, including individuals who do not identify as a specific gender. Pansexual people may describe their attraction as focusing on personality rather than gender.
Cisgender – Umbrella term for those whose gender expression and gender identity are congruent with the sex assigned to them at birth, and whose gender is validated by the dominant culture.
Biological Sex – Category assigned to each of us at birth based on a variety of physical and biological characteristics, usually determined by genitals.
Gender Identity – The internal perception of one’s gender, and how they label themselves, based on how much they align or don’t align with what they understand their options for gender to be. Common identity labels include man, woman, genderqueer, trans and more. Gender identity is sometimes confused with biological sex, or sex assigned at birth.
Sexual Identity – The way in which one understands oneself in regard to one’s sexuality.
Do you just need to talk?
We aim to provide support and assistance whatever your circumstances, be it your internal struggle of self acceptance, be it the revelation to your family or friends, or be it your journey of transitioning from one life to another. Whatever your struggle, we offer a safe, confidential and supportive environment in which you are able to explore your experiences and inner most feelings.
Counselling, psychotherapy or hypnotherapy may be relevant depending upon your own unique situation, as such, we will tailor make our therapy sessions to suit your individual needs. We offer the opportunity for you to confront and process your feelings in a space that is confidential, genuine, empathic and compassionate to your experiences.
LGBTQIA+ In Confidence
During the one on one sessions, we can tackle issues such as confidence, relationships, trauma or past trauma, sexuality, childhood, self esteem, anxiety and depression. We believe that being secure in who you are is paramount and as such, we are dedicated to assisting you in leading a happy, fulfilled and authentic life.