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LGBTQ+ Affirming Couples Therapy
Re-imagined, affirming relationship therapy built for you.
Our approach
Many couple therapy approaches were built with a specific type of heterosexual couple in mind. It was only later that the models were adapted to non-heterosexual relationships. At ISDR, we re-envisioned the therapy process to begin with you in mind — creating a framework that does not make faulty assumptions about relationship structure, sexual orientation, or identity from the ground up.
Our clinicians are trained to recognize and address the specific challenges LGBTQ+ couples face: minority stress, internalized stigma, family-of-origin dynamics that may include rejection, and the many possible layers of identity intersections (religion, neurodivergence, etc.).
What we work with
- Minority stress and its effects on relationship dynamics
- Internalized stigma and its effect on intimacy
- Family-of-origin dynamics specific to LGBTQ+ relationships
- Navigating non-affirming family or community
- Intersectional considerations (mixed-faith dynamics, faith transitions, neurodivergence, etc.)
What to expect
Relationship therapy begins with a thorough assessment (typically three sessions) to understand your history and patterns both as a relationship and as individuals. This will likely look like an initial combined session followed by an individual session for each partner. From there, we usually meet all together in structured weekly or biweekly sessions.
Our work is grounded in Self-Determination Based Therapy (SDBT), integrated with the Developmental Model from the Couples Institute, Gottman Method research, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). SDBT forms the foundation, keeping therapy grounded in what's motivating each partner and the environment each partner flourishes (or feels thwarted) in. It helps us customize therapy to meet you where you're at, rather than the other way around. The other approaches provide helpful clinical tools for communication, for ending destructive cycles, and for rekindling intimacy.
Specializing Therapists
Affirming therapy from the ground up.
Experience relationship therapy that was built for you — not adapted to you.
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