Understanding
LGBTQ+ Identity & Sexuality
Exploring LGBTQ+ identity and sexuality can bring both joy and challenges. Whilst these identities are natural parts of human diversity, societal discrimination, family rejection, or internalized stigma can significantly impact mental health, relationships, and overall wellbeing.
Understanding
LGBTQ+ Identity & Sexuality
Exploring LGBTQ+ identity and sexuality can bring both joy and challenges. Whilst these identities are natural parts of human diversity, societal discrimination, family rejection, or internalized stigma can significantly impact mental health, relationships, and overall wellbeing.
Understanding
LGBTQ+ Identity & Sexuality
Exploring LGBTQ+ identity and sexuality can bring both joy and challenges. Whilst these identities are natural parts of human diversity, societal discrimination, family rejection, or internalized stigma can significantly impact mental health, relationships, and overall wellbeing.
What does LGBTQ+ Identity & Sexuality feel like?
Navigating LGBTQ+ identity can feel like a journey of self-discovery mixed with periods of confusion, fear, and ultimately liberation. You might experience anxiety about coming out, worry about family or social rejection, or struggle with internalized negative messages about your identity. Many people describe feeling different from a young age but lacking language or representation to understand themselves.
The process of accepting and embracing your identity can bring immense relief and authenticity, though societal challenges like discrimination, microaggressions, or lack of understanding can create ongoing stress. Finding your community and supportive relationships often becomes crucial for mental health and wellbeing, whilst navigating disclosure decisions in different contexts can feel emotionally exhausting.
Common Symptoms
Anxiety about coming out or being discovered by family or peers
Depression or low self-esteem related to internalized stigma
Hypervigilance in certain social or professional environments
Difficulty forming intimate relationships due to fear of rejection
Identity confusion or questioning during self-discovery periods
Social isolation or feeling disconnected from family or community
Stress from managing disclosure decisions in different contexts
Trauma responses from discrimination, rejection, or conversion therapy
What does LGBTQ+ Identity & Sexuality feel like?
Navigating LGBTQ+ identity can feel like a journey of self-discovery mixed with periods of confusion, fear, and ultimately liberation. You might experience anxiety about coming out, worry about family or social rejection, or struggle with internalized negative messages about your identity. Many people describe feeling different from a young age but lacking language or representation to understand themselves.
The process of accepting and embracing your identity can bring immense relief and authenticity, though societal challenges like discrimination, microaggressions, or lack of understanding can create ongoing stress. Finding your community and supportive relationships often becomes crucial for mental health and wellbeing, whilst navigating disclosure decisions in different contexts can feel emotionally exhausting.
Common Symptoms
Anxiety about coming out or being discovered by family or peers
Depression or low self-esteem related to internalized stigma
Hypervigilance in certain social or professional environments
Difficulty forming intimate relationships due to fear of rejection
Identity confusion or questioning during self-discovery periods
Social isolation or feeling disconnected from family or community
Stress from managing disclosure decisions in different contexts
Trauma responses from discrimination, rejection, or conversion therapy
What does LGBTQ+ Identity & Sexuality feel like?
Navigating LGBTQ+ identity can feel like a journey of self-discovery mixed with periods of confusion, fear, and ultimately liberation. You might experience anxiety about coming out, worry about family or social rejection, or struggle with internalized negative messages about your identity. Many people describe feeling different from a young age but lacking language or representation to understand themselves.
The process of accepting and embracing your identity can bring immense relief and authenticity, though societal challenges like discrimination, microaggressions, or lack of understanding can create ongoing stress. Finding your community and supportive relationships often becomes crucial for mental health and wellbeing, whilst navigating disclosure decisions in different contexts can feel emotionally exhausting.
Common Symptoms
Anxiety about coming out or being discovered by family or peers
Depression or low self-esteem related to internalized stigma
Hypervigilance in certain social or professional environments
Difficulty forming intimate relationships due to fear of rejection
Identity confusion or questioning during self-discovery periods
Social isolation or feeling disconnected from family or community
Stress from managing disclosure decisions in different contexts
Trauma responses from discrimination, rejection, or conversion therapy
History of LGBTQ+ Identity & Sexuality
Understanding LGBTQ+ identities has transformed from criminalization and pathologization to recognition as natural human diversity deserving of equality and affirmation.
1960s-70s
The Stonewall uprising and early LGBTQ+ rights movements began challenging criminalization and medical pathologization, whilst pioneering activists fought for basic civil rights and social acceptance.
1980s
The HIV/AIDS crisis devastated LGBTQ+ communities whilst also galvanizing activism and community support networks, leading to increased visibility and advocacy for healthcare and anti-discrimination protections.
1990s
Homosexuality was removed from psychiatric diagnostic manuals, marking a shift from pathologization to acceptance, whilst research began exploring minority stress and the mental health impacts of discrimination.
Present
Modern understanding recognises LGBTQ+ identities as natural human diversity, with legal marriage equality in many countries, anti-discrimination protections, and affirming healthcare approaches, though challenges and disparities remain globally.
History of LGBTQ+ Identity & Sexuality
Understanding LGBTQ+ identities has transformed from criminalization and pathologization to recognition as natural human diversity deserving of equality and affirmation.
1960s-70s
The Stonewall uprising and early LGBTQ+ rights movements began challenging criminalization and medical pathologization, whilst pioneering activists fought for basic civil rights and social acceptance.
1980s
The HIV/AIDS crisis devastated LGBTQ+ communities whilst also galvanizing activism and community support networks, leading to increased visibility and advocacy for healthcare and anti-discrimination protections.
1990s
Homosexuality was removed from psychiatric diagnostic manuals, marking a shift from pathologization to acceptance, whilst research began exploring minority stress and the mental health impacts of discrimination.
Present
Modern understanding recognises LGBTQ+ identities as natural human diversity, with legal marriage equality in many countries, anti-discrimination protections, and affirming healthcare approaches, though challenges and disparities remain globally.
History of LGBTQ+ Identity & Sexuality
Understanding LGBTQ+ identities has transformed from criminalization and pathologization to recognition as natural human diversity deserving of equality and affirmation.
1960s-70s
The Stonewall uprising and early LGBTQ+ rights movements began challenging criminalization and medical pathologization, whilst pioneering activists fought for basic civil rights and social acceptance.
1980s
The HIV/AIDS crisis devastated LGBTQ+ communities whilst also galvanizing activism and community support networks, leading to increased visibility and advocacy for healthcare and anti-discrimination protections.
1990s
Homosexuality was removed from psychiatric diagnostic manuals, marking a shift from pathologization to acceptance, whilst research began exploring minority stress and the mental health impacts of discrimination.
Present
Modern understanding recognises LGBTQ+ identities as natural human diversity, with legal marriage equality in many countries, anti-discrimination protections, and affirming healthcare approaches, though challenges and disparities remain globally.
Take our free self-test
Take our free self-test
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
How therapy can help
LGBTQ+-affirming therapy provides crucial support for identity exploration, coming out processes, and managing minority stress. Qualified therapists help process internalized stigma, develop coping strategies for discrimination, and support healthy relationship formation.
Therapy addresses mental health challenges like anxiety and depression that may result from societal rejection or family conflict, whilst celebrating and affirming diverse sexual and gender identities. Treatment focuses on building resilience, self-acceptance, and authentic living whilst connecting individuals with supportive community resources and networks.
Benefits of Therapy
Explore sexual and gender identity in a safe, non-judgmental environment
Process internalized stigma and develop self-acceptance
Navigate coming out decisions and manage family relationships
Build resilience against discrimination and minority stress
Address anxiety, depression, or trauma related to identity rejection
Develop healthy relationship and intimacy skills
Connect with LGBTQ+ community resources and support networks
Create authentic living strategies whilst maintaining safety and wellbeing
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about LGBTQ+ identity and affirming therapeutic support
Is it normal to feel confused about my sexual or gender identity?
Absolutely. Identity exploration is a natural process that can continue throughout life. Questioning doesn't mean anything is wrong with you - it's part of understanding yourself better. Many people experience periods of uncertainty before finding clarity about their identity.
How do I know if I need therapy specifically for LGBTQ+ identity issues?
Consider LGBTQ+-affirming therapy if you're struggling with identity acceptance, experiencing anxiety about coming out, dealing with family rejection, facing discrimination stress, or having difficulty forming relationships due to identity concerns. Any distress related to your identity deserves support.
Can therapy change my sexual orientation or gender identity?
No, and ethical therapy should never attempt this. Conversion therapy has been proven harmful and ineffective. LGBTQ+-affirming therapy focuses on helping you accept and celebrate your authentic identity, not changing who you are.
What if my family doesn't accept my LGBTQ+ identity?
Family rejection can be deeply painful, but you deserve love and acceptance for who you are. Therapy can help you process this grief, develop coping strategies, build chosen family relationships, and sometimes facilitate family education and reconciliation when safe and appropriate.
How therapy can help
LGBTQ+-affirming therapy provides crucial support for identity exploration, coming out processes, and managing minority stress. Qualified therapists help process internalized stigma, develop coping strategies for discrimination, and support healthy relationship formation.
Therapy addresses mental health challenges like anxiety and depression that may result from societal rejection or family conflict, whilst celebrating and affirming diverse sexual and gender identities. Treatment focuses on building resilience, self-acceptance, and authentic living whilst connecting individuals with supportive community resources and networks.
Benefits of Therapy
Explore sexual and gender identity in a safe, non-judgmental environment
Process internalized stigma and develop self-acceptance
Navigate coming out decisions and manage family relationships
Build resilience against discrimination and minority stress
Address anxiety, depression, or trauma related to identity rejection
Develop healthy relationship and intimacy skills
Connect with LGBTQ+ community resources and support networks
Create authentic living strategies whilst maintaining safety and wellbeing
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about LGBTQ+ identity and affirming therapeutic support
Is it normal to feel confused about my sexual or gender identity?
Absolutely. Identity exploration is a natural process that can continue throughout life. Questioning doesn't mean anything is wrong with you - it's part of understanding yourself better. Many people experience periods of uncertainty before finding clarity about their identity.
How do I know if I need therapy specifically for LGBTQ+ identity issues?
Consider LGBTQ+-affirming therapy if you're struggling with identity acceptance, experiencing anxiety about coming out, dealing with family rejection, facing discrimination stress, or having difficulty forming relationships due to identity concerns. Any distress related to your identity deserves support.
Can therapy change my sexual orientation or gender identity?
No, and ethical therapy should never attempt this. Conversion therapy has been proven harmful and ineffective. LGBTQ+-affirming therapy focuses on helping you accept and celebrate your authentic identity, not changing who you are.
What if my family doesn't accept my LGBTQ+ identity?
Family rejection can be deeply painful, but you deserve love and acceptance for who you are. Therapy can help you process this grief, develop coping strategies, build chosen family relationships, and sometimes facilitate family education and reconciliation when safe and appropriate.
How therapy can help
LGBTQ+-affirming therapy provides crucial support for identity exploration, coming out processes, and managing minority stress. Qualified therapists help process internalized stigma, develop coping strategies for discrimination, and support healthy relationship formation.
Therapy addresses mental health challenges like anxiety and depression that may result from societal rejection or family conflict, whilst celebrating and affirming diverse sexual and gender identities. Treatment focuses on building resilience, self-acceptance, and authentic living whilst connecting individuals with supportive community resources and networks.
Benefits of Therapy
Explore sexual and gender identity in a safe, non-judgmental environment
Process internalized stigma and develop self-acceptance
Navigate coming out decisions and manage family relationships
Build resilience against discrimination and minority stress
Address anxiety, depression, or trauma related to identity rejection
Develop healthy relationship and intimacy skills
Connect with LGBTQ+ community resources and support networks
Create authentic living strategies whilst maintaining safety and wellbeing
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about LGBTQ+ identity and affirming therapeutic support
Is it normal to feel confused about my sexual or gender identity?
Absolutely. Identity exploration is a natural process that can continue throughout life. Questioning doesn't mean anything is wrong with you - it's part of understanding yourself better. Many people experience periods of uncertainty before finding clarity about their identity.
How do I know if I need therapy specifically for LGBTQ+ identity issues?
Consider LGBTQ+-affirming therapy if you're struggling with identity acceptance, experiencing anxiety about coming out, dealing with family rejection, facing discrimination stress, or having difficulty forming relationships due to identity concerns. Any distress related to your identity deserves support.
Can therapy change my sexual orientation or gender identity?
No, and ethical therapy should never attempt this. Conversion therapy has been proven harmful and ineffective. LGBTQ+-affirming therapy focuses on helping you accept and celebrate your authentic identity, not changing who you are.
What if my family doesn't accept my LGBTQ+ identity?
Family rejection can be deeply painful, but you deserve love and acceptance for who you are. Therapy can help you process this grief, develop coping strategies, build chosen family relationships, and sometimes facilitate family education and reconciliation when safe and appropriate.
Meet our Therapists
Meet our Therapists
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we are pleased to introduce Grant Fairlie (MBACP), a counsellor with over 1,900 clinical hours and more than three years of practice. Grant brings a background in drama education and specialist experience supporting neurodiverse adults and adolescents.
More
Adults (18+)
Introducing Andrea Szentgyorgyi, a UKCP-registered integrative psychotherapist with over 1,000 clinical hours. Andrea combines person-centred, solution-focused therapy with advanced techniques including hypnotherapy and EMDR, creating a tailored and flexible approach for each client. With 6 years of experience, she provides a safe and supportive space to explore challenges and promote lasting emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we’re proud to introduce Isabella May Leonard (MSc), an experienced person-centred psychotherapist offering therapy for adults. With over 2,500 clinical hours, Isabella brings warmth, compassion, and professional depth to her practice, with experience across private practice, NHS Talking Therapies, and third-sector services. She provides both short- and long-term therapy, creating a safe and reflective space where clients can explore challenges at their own pace.
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we are pleased to introduce Grant Fairlie (MBACP), a counsellor with over 1,900 clinical hours and more than three years of practice. Grant brings a background in drama education and specialist experience supporting neurodiverse adults and adolescents.
More
Adults (18+)
Jayne Tamsett is a BACP accredited counsellor with a BA (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy and over 4,700 clinical hours. She works with adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship challenges. Her practice offers an inclusive and compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal growth
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)