Coming Out

All parts of you matter.

Coming out can be an experience that is an important part of the life story of a person and their integrity of self image. The stakes of coming out are often very high and involve the possibility of real or perceived loss of relationships, loss of safety or loss of employment opportunities. Sometimes well-meaning, important figures in a person’s life may have contributed to a sense of shame or confusion by judging gay, lesbian, bisexual or questioning people. The problem is not a person's identity, but it is the bias that they face from others and sometimes biased beliefs they have about themselves.

The LGBTQ community can be a vital resource, but can also sometimes feel overwhelming or difficult to navigate. The main benefit therapy can provide is the experience of a safe environment in which to explore what your identity means to you, personally. We can learn to understand any anger or frustration, both at the world and/or at yourself, for not fitting in or meeting certain expectations.

Being on the therapist side of the “couch,” I have heard many stories about previous counseling experiences that did not go well. In working with people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, questioning, etc., I have heard too many stories of prejudice and discrimination experienced in previous counseling or health service encounters. This is not what you will get when you come to the Cameron Murdock Group. We specialize in LGBTQ+ issues and take great pride in being as inclusive and affirming as possible.