Coming out of the closet is seen as a monumental milestone in queer lives. Leaving the safety of conformity can be terrifying, but liberation and self-love, infinitely rewarding.

Each day, we’re pulled further and further from that which is inherent in us - our power, our love, our joy, our ease - our self.

Explore how the collaboration with Bessel Van Der Kolk, renowned trauma expert, profoundly influenced Expansive Therapy's approach to healing.

Discover the impact of generational and historical trauma, its perpetuating cycle, and how therapy plays a crucial role in fostering healing.

Navigate holiday stress and complex family dynamics with self-care, planning, and maintaining boundaries. Get tips for a healthier holiday experience.

Explore how LGBTQ+ movements challenge traditional binaries, transforming our understanding of gender, emotion, and human experience.

Discover the link between the queer and neurodivergent communities, understand unique challenges they face, and the need for informed therapy.

Explore the relationship between addiction and isolation, how recovery hinges on connection, and the importance of empathetic support.

I wish I could say that I purposefully decided to take a tech break while I was away on holiday. The truth is that other activities pushed it out of the way. And then I noticed that. And then I started to notice other things.

For most people that have gone through the coming out process, it can be painful.  No one says this is easy, internally or externally. But truth is gold. 

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is having a moment.  A big one.  In his theory,  Richard Schwartz believes that we have not one solid self, but instead, many selves.  Sometimes these selves have jobs that compete with each other.

Demisexuality is an identity that is quickly growing in today’s world, and yet it is often misunderstood or overshadowed by more widely recognized orientations. Demisexuality refers to a sexual orientation where individuals only experience sexual attraction only after forming a strong emotional bond with someone. Unlike traditional models of attraction, which prioritize physical appearance and immediate chemistry, demisexual individuals require a deep emotional connection before feeling sexual desire.

In recent years, ethical non-monogamy has exploded in popularity as more and more individuals realize that traditional, monogamous relationships don’t align with who they are and what they value and desire. As a therapist, I've guided many clients through the complexities of alternative relationships. Here, I'll delve into what ethical non-monogamy entails and offer guidance on navigating its complexities within relationships.

If you are considering exploring pansexuality, queer affirming therapy can be a great place to start. In this article, we delve into the unique considerations and therapeutic approaches involved in exploring pansexuality.

From self-awareness to improving relationships to processing trauma, here are 6 of the top benefits of going to therapy.

If you identify as LGBTQ or are curious about exploring a part of yourself that falls outside of the cisgender heteronormative box, therapy can be a powerful tool for self discovery, self acceptance, healing, and empowerment. However, not all therapy is the same, and there is a big difference between a therapist who has undergone training to be LGBTQ affirming versus someone who says that we are all alike and they can work with anyone. There are many things that make the LGBTQ experience different from the straight cis experience, and if a therapist doesn’t understand or appreciate those differences, there is a high likelihood that important parts of you will get minimized, bypassed, and even avoided.

The way we view therapy is heavily influenced by the media, our family of origin, our circle of friends, social media, and our greater culture. Unfortunately, many of the conceptions that we hear are pretty far off from the actual experience of therapy in today's world, and they can make starting therapy feel more intimidating. In this article, we'll debunk the 6 most common misconceptions that we hear about therapy.

Our gender identity is a fundamental aspect of who we are, shaping our sense of self, relationships, and experiences in the world. However, for many individuals, exploring gender can be a complex and challenging journey filled with uncertainty, confusion, and societal pressures. In therapy, delving into one's gender identity with an affirming gender therapist can offer profound benefits, fostering self-discovery, empowerment, and authentic living.

Queer individuals often face unique challenges and adversities in navigating their identities and relationships. In queer affirming therapy, addressing these challenges requires a nuanced approach that recognizes the importance of self-compassion and resilience. 

As a therapy practice that focuses on alternative relationships, our therapists have a lot of experience dealing with poly relationships, and a few of of us are in them ourselves. Polyamory comes with many benefits backed by science, the only thing to remember as you review these is that none of them come easy. They definitely don't come the day you decide to become poly. The benefits come over time to people who are committed to building a strong foundation for their polycule. The growth requires leaning in and getting uncomfortable, and having the right support in doing so.

Trauma can manifest in various forms, from overt experiences of violence or abuse to subtler forms of discrimination, rejection, or invalidation. For LGBTQ folks, navigating societal stigma, familial rejection, and internalized shame can result in profound emotional wounds that affect mental health and well-being. Trauma-informed therapy acknowledges the complex intersections of identity, oppression, and resilience, creating a safe space for exploration and healing.

Kink encompasses a wide range of sexual behaviors, desires, and fantasies that deviate from conventional norms or practices. It includes activities such as bondage, role-playing, fetishism, dominance and submission, and sensory play, among many others. At its foundation, healthy kink is a consensual and mutually satisfying expression of sexual desire that allows individuals to explore their fantasies, desires, and identities in a safe and consensual manner.

For all the beautiful parts of being queer, there are also some challenges we face. From microaggressions to systemic oppression to complicated family dynamics, we can easily become bogged down with stress or fall into shame spirals and isolation. None of it is our fault, but it is our responsibility to take care of ourselves in order to build the resilience we need to ward off these negative forces instead of internalizing them. Here are queer focused self care strategies: 

As an LGBTQ identified and specialized therapist, one of the most vital aspects of my work is helping individuals navigate the complexities of their identity. Among the gay community, one issue that frequently arises in therapy sessions is internalized homophobia. This issue, which all gay people face to one degree or another, can have profound effects on mental health and wellbeing. Often it operates below consciousness and directs our life without us even realizing it. In this article, I'll delve into what internalized homophobia is and offer insights into how it can be addressed effectively in therapy.

Coming out as gay is something that takes an enormous amount of courage. Wherever you are in life and whatever your surroundings might be, know that you are not alone, that there is nothing wrong with you, and that there are people out there who will support you and love you for exactly who you are. It is never too late or too early to come out if you know in your heart that you are gay. There is usually a hump to get over and some emotional work to do, undoing years of negative messaging, but at the end of the road is the recognition that being gay is a beautiful thing. 

The LGBTQIA community possesses many strengths and positive attributes that aren’t often acknowledged within mainstream narratives. Primarily, these strengths come from our journey as queer people. Being different, experiencing adversity, coming out, advocating for ourselves and others - these are all experiences that benefit us in so many ways, building strength and character, crafting us into our fabulous selves!  Here are some of the strengths and positive attributes that research has found to be associated with LGBTQ individuals; 

Asexuality is a sexual orientation that is often misunderstood or overlooked in mainstream discussions about sexuality. Yet, for individuals who identify as asexual, it is a fundamental aspect of their identity and lived experience. In this article, we'll explore what it means to be asexual, debunk common misconceptions, and discuss the importance of seeking support through therapy.

Embarking on a journey of self-discovery and understanding around bisexuality can feel both daunting and liberating. If you find yourself considering therapy as a means to navigate this journey, know that you're not alone. In this article, we offer guidance and insights for individuals considering therapy as a resource for exploring bisexuality, providing a roadmap for self-exploration, acceptance, and empowerment.

Polyamory and open relationships are both forms of consensually non-monogamous relationships that prioritize trust, honest, and communication, but they have distinct characteristics and dynamics:

A gender therapist, also known as a gender-affirming therapist or gender counselor, is a mental health professional who specializes in working with individuals who are exploring or questioning their gender identity, as well as those who are navigating gender transition or related issues. These therapists provide a safe, supportive, and affirming space for clients to explore their gender identity, express their feelings and concerns, and access appropriate resources and support.

Gay affirmative therapy, also known as gay affirming therapy or simply gay therapy, offers a safe and affirming space for gay individuals to explore their experience of being gay in the world, heal from painful and traumatic experiences, begin to understand how internalized homophobia works, and tap into their strengths and cultivate resilience.

Genderqueer is a term used to describe individuals whose gender identity falls outside the traditional categories of male and female. Genderqueer folks reject or transcend societal norms and expectations associated with gender, embracing a fluid or non-binary understanding of themselves.

If you’re thinking about opening your relationship, it’s important to protect yourself from negative cultural messaging and take comfort in knowing that there is a lot of research out there that shows that open relationships are just as healthy and satisfying as conventional, monogamous relationships, and in some cases more so. In this article, we’ll get into some of the biggest benefits that are backed by research and therapeutic experience. 

In a world where romantic relationships often take center stage, the experiences of those who identify as aromantic can sometimes be overlooked or misunderstood. Aromanticism describes individuals who experience little to no romantic attraction or desire for romantic relationships. 

Relational therapy, also known as relational-cultural therapy or relational psychotherapy, is primary modality used at Expansive Therapy, and is a therapeutic approach rooted in the belief that healing occurs within the context of relationships. Rather than focusing solely on individual pathology, relational therapy emphasizes the importance of interpersonal connections and their impact on mental health and well-being. Here, we delve into five compelling benefits of relational therapy, supported by research evidence.

Gender dysphoria is a complex and deeply personal experience that occurs when someone’s gender identity, or internal sense of their own gender, differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. This misalignment can manifest as distress, discomfort, and dissatisfaction with one's body, social roles, and overall sense of self. Gender dysphoria is a very difficult thing to navigate alone, especially within environments that are not affirming of gender exploration. LGBTQ affirming therapy can be a good place to find support and begin to unpack feelings of gender dysphoria. Only you can decide what the right path forward is in terms of your gender, but therapy provides the affirming space for you to figure that out.  

Religious trauma can be a heavy burden to carry for LGBTQ folks. The clash between religious teachings and your identity may have left you feeling lost, unworthy, and disconnected. In LGBTQ therapy, our goal is to join you empathetically as you navigate through these challenges towards a place of self-acceptance, resilience, and inner peace.

In discussions surrounding gender, it's common to encounter terms like gender identity, gender role, and gender expression. However, these concepts are distinct and nuanced, each playing a unique role in shaping an individual's experience of gender. In this article, we'll delve into the differences between gender identity, gender role, and gender expression, and highlight the importance of seeking therapy for individuals navigating their gender journey.

Finding the right therapist can feel a bit daunting. We’ve laid out 5 tips for finding your match.

If you identify as gay and are considering starting therapy, finding a therapist who understands and affirms your experiences and identity is crucial. The difference between a gay affirming therapist and a therapist who says that they treat everyone the same can be vast.

Bisexual people comprise the largest group of LGBTQ+ people by far, and yet they still tend to face a lot of invalidation in our culture. Bi erasure refers to the tendency to ignore, deny, or invalidate the existence of bisexuality as a legitimate sexual orientation. It occurs when people overlook or dismiss the experiences and identities of individuals who are attracted to more than one gender.

Questioning one's sexual orientation is a journey that many individuals embark on at different points in their lives. It's a process filled with complexity, introspection, and sometimes confusion, but it's also a journey that holds the potential for profound self-discovery and growth. In this article, we'll explore what it means to question one's sexual orientation and how to navigate this journey with compassion and self-awareness.

If you identify as part of the LGBT community and are thinking about starting therapy, one of the questions that you should consider is whether or not to seek out a therapist who identifies as LGBT themselves. The alternative would be to seek out LGBT affirmative therapy without regard for the identity of the therapist, or specifically from someone outside the community, knowing that they have received specialized training with the LGBT community. Here are some of the reasons why you might choose either. 

Taking the first step towards therapy can be both daunting and empowering. Whether you're seeking support for mental health concerns, personal growth, or relationship issues, the first therapy session marks the beginning of a transformative journey towards healing and self-discovery. In this article, we'll explore what typically happens in a first therapy session and provide guidance on what to expect.

Within Indigenous cultures of North America, the term "Two-Spirit" holds profound cultural and spiritual significance, encapsulating a holistic understanding of gender identity, sexuality, and spirituality. In this article, we explore what it means to be Two-Spirit, delving into its historical roots, contemporary relevance, and the challenges experienced by individuals who identify with this identity.

As a practice specializing in LGBTQ relationship counseling, we’ve had the privilege of witnessing the profound impact therapy can have on strengthening and enriching the bonds between couples within the LGBTQ community. LGBTQ relationship counseling provides a dedicated space for couples to navigate the complexities of love, intimacy, and partnership with support and guidance tailored to their unique needs.

Pansexuality is a sexual orientation characterized by attraction to individuals regardless of their gender identity or expression. Pansexual individuals may be attracted to people of all genders, including but not limited to cisgender, transgender, non-binary, and genderqueer individuals. Pansexuality emphasizes attraction to the person as a whole, rather than solely based on their gender.

Often in our content we refer to mental health related topics and issues that not everyone understands. Here is a list of LGBTQ mental health related terms if you find yourself curious of confused.

Curious about what each identity in the LGBTQIA spectrum means? We've got you covered.