One of my specialties is providing LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy. There is a broad spectrum of identities that fall under this LGBTQ+ umbrella. They include but are not limited to: lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, asexual, pansexual, androgynous, bigendered, genderqueer, etc. I love the beauty represented in this diversity of sexual and gender expression. I am poly-friendly, I support the diverse sexual expression of consenting adults, and I am committed to serving the LGBTQ+ community in Larimer County.

Throughout my clinical work, I have gained experience working with LGBTQ+ clients who are at various stages of their sexual and/or gender identity development. For example, I have co-facilitated various groups: LGBTQ+ youth (ages 14-20) support group, LGBTQ+ therapy support group for university students, and a “coming out” group for university students who were at the beginning stages of discovering their sexual identities. I have completed Safe Zone training as well as been a facilitator of this training. I have completed trainings in Colorado and California focusing on working with clients who are transgender and gender non-conforming. I have also completed many other LGBTQ+ trainings and conducted research on related topics. For example, I wrote my dissertation on affirmative therapy with bisexual clients.

In addition, my journey with my own sexual identity development and my discovery of my authentic self greatly inform my ability to empathize with others’ struggles to attain self-acceptance. I identify as a cisgender queer woman. My own journey has been challenging, frightening, rewarding, and empowering. I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Although I certainly do not know what it feels like to be you on your journey, I do know what it feels like to be me on mine. And I use this knowledge to support, empathize, hold space, and step back when needed. I am honored when I have the opportunity to walk alongside others in their journeys and assist when I can. Becoming and loving our true, authentic selves is what it’s all about.

Who you are authentically is all right.  - Laverne Cox