Affirmative psychology is a therapeutic approach that recognises, validates and respects sexual, emotional and gender diversity as legitimate and healthy expressions of the human experience.
It does not view sexual orientation or gender identity as a problem to be treated. On the contrary, it understands that the psychological distress experienced by LGBTIQ+ people is often linked to stigma, discrimination, rejection or social invisibility.
Affirmative therapy does not seek to change who you are, but rather to support you in the process of understanding and accepting yourself, and living with greater well-being and coherence.
Why is this approach necessary?
Many people in the community have experienced family or social rejection, bullying or harassment at school, workplace or institutional discrimination, constant microaggressions or invalidation, and the invisibilisation of their relationships or identities.
These experiences can have a cumulative impact that increases the risk of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem or relationship difficulties.
Furthermore, some people have had previous experiences in non-affirmative therapeutic settings, where their identity may have been questioned, minimised or pathologised. This can lead to mistrust and a fear of seeking help again.
What does affirmative intervention involve?
Affirmative psychology involves the respectful use of chosen names and pronouns, an understanding of the diversity of experiences within the group, analysing distress whilst taking social and cultural context into account, validating emotions linked to rejection or discrimination, and working on self-esteem and identity from an inclusive perspective.
It is not about ‘accepting’, but about actively affirming identity as a valuable and legitimate part of the person.
Positive Psychology
Every process is unique, but some common areas of work with members of the LGBTIQ+ community include:
Dealing with confusion or exploration regarding sexual or gender identity.
Coming-out processes.
Coping with family rejection.
Working through guilt, shame and internalised homophobia or transphobia.
Support during transition processes.
Treatment for the impact of harassment or violence, as well as difficulties in romantic relationships.
It is important to note that not all reasons for seeking therapy are related to sexual identity or orientation; LGBTIQ+ people may seek therapy for any reason, but they appreciate a safe and non-judgemental space.