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Empowering You to Live Proud and Whole
LGBTQIA+ Affirming Counseling
LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy celebrates and supports all identities across the spectrum of sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. It’s based on the belief that everyone deserves a safe, inclusive, and non-judgmental space to explore and embrace their true self.
What "Affirming" Means
Affirming care respects and honors the diversity of LGBTQIA identities without judging or downplaying them. Therapists aim to create a space where you feel seen, respected, and celebrated just as you are. Here's what to expect along the way.
A Safe Start
From the very first contact, the therapist uses inclusive language and makes sure intake forms and sessions respect each client’s name, pronouns, and identity.
Collaborative Goals
Clients are encouraged to share what they want from therapy—whether it’s support with identity exploration, trauma, relationships, transitioning, or just managing life’s stress. Together, therapist and client develop goals that fit the client’s values and priorities.
Identity Affirmation & Exploration
The therapist offers a supportive and affirming space for clients who are questioning, coming out, or exploring their identity more deeply, with a focus on transgender and nonbinary individuals. Support is also provided throughout social, medical, and legal transitions, including assistance with letters for gender-affirming care when appropriate.
Trauma-Informed & Strength-Based Care
Understanding the unique challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals may face—like discrimination, rejection, and systemic oppression—the therapist takes a trauma-informed and compassionate approach that focuses on resilience and empowerment.
Advocacy & Community Resources
When needed, the therapist connects clients to LGBTQIA+ resources, support groups, medical providers, and community services. They also help clients navigate places like workplaces, schools, or healthcare settings where identity-related challenges might come up.
Commitment to Affirming Care
Red Lotus Counseling & Wellness is committed to providing compassionate, culturally competent, and affirming care tailored to LGBTQIA clients of all backgrounds. We believe everyone deserves to live fully and authentically.
A Note on Ohio HB 68
Affirming Care is Still Possible
Ohio House Bill 68 (HB 68), passed in 2024, restricts access to gender-affirming medical care for minors and limits the role mental health providers can have in supporting transgender youth in certain medical contexts. While Red Lotus Counseling & Wellness complies fully with all state requirements, we remain deeply committed to providing ethical, affirming mental health care to LGBTQIA+ clients—including youth and families—within the boundaries of current law.
Despite legal and political challenges, Red Lotus Counseling & Wellness is steadfast in its dedication to the emotional well-being and human rights of LGBTQIA+ clients. Affirming care is a powerful healing process, and we continue to provide it with integrity, respect, and cultural humility. In light of HB 68, we continue to offer gender-affirming counseling and emotional support to trans and nonbinary youth. We collaborate closely with parents and caregivers to promote understanding and affirmation within families, providing accurate information, advocacy support, and referrals to helpful resources. Our practice remains a safe, confidential space where youth can explore their identities without fear of judgment.