LGBTQ counseling

Ardent’s philosophy is based on the notion that our inner dialogue is comprised of various parts of the self that may not co-exist harmoniously. If unaddressed, these internal conflicts can significantly compromise authentic self-expression, fulfillment, healthy coping and the quality of interpersonal relationships.

It is difficult to fully appreciate on our own, the degree to which relationships and our desires to please or appear a certain way to others have shaped our inner landscape. One of the main reasons why this is a struggle for so many of us is that we are constantly subject to messages about how we should think, feel, and act, and we may be pressured in various implicit and explicit ways to fit molds dictated by our environments. Those “rules” and “shoulds” about how to be “good” and “successful” often limit genuine self-expression, which then causes emotional distress.

Ardent’s therapists help you safely discover your growth edges so that you can develop more adaptive, effective coping mechanisms for life stressors. We assist clients in making better distinctions between their own true voices and the voices or parts of themselves they’ve internalized from their relationships. Our counseling services facilitate forward momentum, symptom relief, and help our clients form healthier relationships with themselves and with others.

Like any other population, the LGBTQ communities face the gamut of mental health issues including mood disorders and substance abuse but these issues are often compounded with social, religious and cultural biases that exacerbate problems. The LGBTQ communities are important, diverse and vibrant. These communities are strong and offer a rich source of natural resilience and support.

We endeavor to enhance awareness and self-acceptance in our clients with regard to their passions, interpersonal needs, professional goals, familial roles, and peer group dynamics, as well as sexual, gender, ethnic, racial, and spiritual identities.

Ardent works with LGBTQ clients with an affirmative, respectful, and empowering approach.

Our ability to feel relaxed can be aided by the adoption of a healthy routine, getting plenty of sleep, a healthy diet, enough exercise and through techniques such as meditation that help reduce stress.

The therapists at the Ardent Center can help you to work on establishing a good routine for yourself.

It can also help to talk to a therapist, because sometimes there can be an underlying reason for our lack of ease.

What should I do next?

Contact us to arrange for face to face therapy in Chicago (city, north, west and southsides) and in the Northern, Southern and Western Suburbs or online therapy in other areas by phoning 1-888-870-1775 or by contacting us.