LGBTQ+ Mental Health

LGBTQ+ mental health includes the unique emotional and psychological challenges faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other sexual and gender minority people. These challenges often stem from minority stress (stigma, discrimination, family rejection, and barriers to affirming care) and are common: LGBTQ+ people have higher rates of depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidality compared with the general population. I see and validate these experiences and provide care that centers your identity, safety, and dignity.

Symptoms mirror those of other mood and anxiety conditions but often appear alongside identity-related stress. You might experience persistent sadness, intense anxiety, panic attacks, sleep or appetite changes, social withdrawal, or increased substance use. For transgender and gender-diverse people, distress can also include dysphoria, isolation, or distress related to navigating medical, legal, or social transition. Many LGBTQ+ patients also carry trauma from bullying, harassment, or rejection, which can complicate symptoms and relationships.

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My treatment approach is affirming and individualized. I often use psychotherapy (including trauma-focused therapies and LGBTQ+-affirming modalities) alongside medication when indicated; antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and other psychotropics can be important tools to relieve symptoms and restore functioning. For transgender patients, I coordinate closely with gender-affirming care teams when considering how hormones and psychiatric medications interact. I can also provide psychiatric evaluations and referral letters for gender-affirming surgery. Together we build a care plan that respects your identity, values, and goals.

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