At Heights Family Counseling, we are committed to supporting diverse communities across Texas, including LGBTQ+ folks of all ages. We understand the experiences and needs unique to those within LGBTQ+ communities. We also recognize that your concerns may not directly relate to your sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or gender expression. Therefore, we provide personalized therapy that is safe and affirming as you work through any of life’s difficulties.
What is LGBTQ+ Affirming Counseling?
An LGBTQ+ affirming counselor fully embraces your various identities, has relevant knowledge and experience, and advocates with and for you. They acknowledge the intersecting systems of oppression that impact LGBTQ+ people. They understand the need for individual and community healing, as well as systemic change.
At Heights Family Counseling, our motto is “human first.” This means we are, first and foremost, client-centered. We meet you where you are, providing a nonjudgmental space for you to move through your specific concerns. For example, our LGBTQ+ affirming counselors can offer support as you explore your sexuality and gender. They can also help you navigate concerns like anxiety, depression, and life changes.
Everyone needs someone in their corner. LGBTQ+ affirming counseling provides just that, as well as the comfort in knowing all parts of you are seen and celebrated.
Common reasons LGBTQ+ folx seek therapy:
● Identity exploration and acceptance
● Coming out
● Loved one coming out
● Gender transition
● Stress and anxiety
● Depression
● Grief
● Trauma
● Estrangement and loss of relationships
● Connecting with found or chosen family
● Life transitions and changes
● Relationship difficulties
● Sex-related concerns and sex therapy
● Experiences of oppression
● And more
LGBTQ+ Teen Therapy
The teenage years are a dynamic period of development. This entails a process of self-discovery that is often overwhelming, exciting or both! Counseling can be an empowering experience for LGBTQ+ teens as they navigate this and other stressors. Our counselors have expertise in and are ready to help with a variety of concerns. We also offer counseling and other support to parents/guardians and families of LGBTQ+ teens.
Teen counseling at Heights Family Counseling is LGBTQ+ affirming. Whether online or in person at our Houston or San Antonio locations, you can be assured your teen will have a safe place to explore their concerns and be their authentic self.
LGBTQ+ Couples & Relationship Counseling
Our therapists are licensed professionals with extensive training in couples counseling, relationship counseling, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy. They have experience with couples and relationships of all kinds, including non-monogamous, polyamorous, kink-identified, and LGBTQ+ relationships.
Additionally, many of our counselors are Certified Sex Therapists. They are trained to address sex-related concerns and find solutions that can improve your sexual relationship(s).
Our approach to couples and relationship counseling is evidence-based. We understand this process requires vulnerability, so we use a nonjudgmental and caring approach. We want you to experience all the joy relationships can offer. After all, healthy relationships support your overall health and well-being.
Gender Affirming Counseling
Transgender and non-binary individuals have many experiences that are distinct from the LGBTQ+ community as a whole. Therefore, it is important that counseling be both LGBTQ+ affirming and gender-affirming.
Gender-affirming counseling focuses on exploring and increasing comfort with your gender identity and gender expression. For some, this may involve a social, legal, and/or medical transition. Our counselors are here to walk alongside you as you discover what is most affirming for you. We can also help you develop coping skills and access resources such as support groups and gender-affirming medical treatment.
Note: If you need a letter for gender affirmation surgery, please let our admin team know so you can be scheduled with a counselor who meets your specific needs.
Our Specialty
At Heights Family Counseling, we specialize in all types of relationships, including relationships with coworkers, friends, family, and partners. This is a specialty. Whether you are looking for family therapy to manage conflict, marriage counseling to increase connection or individual therapy to process relational concerns, we are here.
Frequently Asked Questions
HOW LONG DOES COUNSELING TAKE?
At Heights Family Counseling, there is no cookie-cutter approach to counseling. Our approaches are specific to the background, needs, and strengths of each client. We collaborate with you to determine the appropriate frequency and duration of counseling services. This may mean you work with us for weeks, months, or years. Whenever you are ready to move forward without the support of counseling, we will celebrate with you!
HOW DO I KNOW THAT WHAT I SAY IN COUNSELING WILL REMAIN CONFIDENTIAL?
Our practice follows state and federal guidelines regarding the security and privacy of client data. This means that everything discussed in counseling will remain confidential. We will not share this information without your consent. Both our in-person and online services are HIPAA-compliant.
Find more frequently asked questions here.
Other Local LGBTQ+ Resources
IN HOUSTON:
The Montrose Center offers a variety of services, such as case management, counseling, support groups, community events, youth programs, and housing assistance.
Legacy Community Health is a community health center and “nationally recognized leader in HIV/AIDS primary care, prevention, and treatment.” Their services also include but are not limited to primary care, transgender specialty care, and social services.
PFLAG Houston provides support, education, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals and their loved ones.
Pride Houston 365 strives to “promote equality and inclusion through celebration and plan for numerous LGBTQIA+ events all year long to support our community.”
My Gay Houston provides information “on the Houston experience to LGBT visitors as well as locals looking for entertainment and activities.”
IN SAN ANTONIO:
Pride Center San Antonio is the “primary one-stop-shop organization in south Texas to promote health, wellness, support, education, activities, and advocacy for the local LGBTQ+ community.”
Kind Clinic San Antonio offers free services such as PrEP, PEP, STI testing and treatment, HIV testing and care, and gender affirming care.
PFLAG San Antonio provides support, education, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals and their loved ones.
Begin LGBTQ+ Affirming Counseling in Houston or San Antonio
Our therapists are passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ community members through mental health and other concerns so they can thrive. Follow these steps to begin therapy in Houston or San Antonio:
Contact our counseling practice to schedule your free consultation.
Meet with an LGBTQ+ affirming counselor.
Begin counseling and work on the concerns that matter most to you.
