LGBTTQ Support / Gender issues

Exploring one’s gender identity or sexual orientation can be fraught with a myriad of questions and worries. It can be both exciting and stressful. For young people, it can lead to behaviours that can be difficult to get to the root of, such as school avoidance; for adults, it can result in relationships that are affected by a sense of shame and a decreased feeling of self-worth, resulting in unsatisfying communication patterns.

Many people have questions and concerns about coming out, taking hormones and having surgeries. Others seek counselling for issues ranging from aging and life transitions to parenting and strengthening intimate relationships.

Despite a growing acceptance of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities, the discrimination and marginalization of LGBTTQ people persists. Discrimination can lead to many stressors and a diminished sense of well-being. Social rejection, bullying, and harassment in the work place can result in anxiety, self-harm, suicidal thoughts and more.

I established the first lesbian/bi women’s group, planned the first women’s lesbian/bi training conference, and organized York Region’s first Take Back the Night event. I worked with two Boards of Education in developing information and programs to serve LGBTTQ youth, and also worked directly with youth and families.

For the past twenty years, I have worked in a variety of community agencies and have contributed substantively to the development of LGBTTQ services in the non-profit sector, as well as in local Boards of Education. I have worked with adolescents, adults, couples and families in both individual and group settings, supporting them through their exploration of issues related to gender identity and sexual orientation.

My services are covered under most insurance plans.
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