What LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy Actually Means

For LGBTQ+ folks, finding a therapist who truly gets it can be the difference between dreading sessions and finally feeling seen. Here’s what “affirming” should mean.

Affirming vs. tolerating

Affirming therapy treats your identity as a healthy, valued part of who you are — never something to fix or change. Your therapist brings knowledge, not just good intentions, so you’re not spending sessions educating them.

What you can bring

Identity and coming out, relationships and family, minority stress, faith and identity — and all the everyday concerns anyone might bring. It’s your space.