Gay couple on couples therapy

Home / gay topics / Gay couple on couples therapy

Sessions are often 45-60 minutes and may include joint or occasional individual meetings.

  • Safe & inclusive environment: Whether in-person or online, LGBTQ-friendly couples therapy is a space where your identities, pronouns, relationship structure, and lived experiences are respected. Some therapists specialize in one model, while others integrate several approaches depending on the needs of the couple.

    Once you’re paired up with your LGBTQ+ therapist, we begin by teaching you new communication skills.

    Most of your sessions will include your partner. It’s a chance to be deeply seen, supported, and understood in the context of who you truly are. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, on the other hand, focuses on identifying and changing negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to relationship conflicts.

    These relationship styles offer unique opportunities for individuals to explore their sexual orientation and desire while maintaining committed partnerships. Therapists provide guidance and support to help couples establish and maintain healthy communication, set clear boundaries, and address any concerns or challenges that may arise within these non-traditional relationship dynamics.

    Navigating Jealousy and Setting Boundaries in Non-Monogamous Relationships

    Jealousy and setting boundaries are common challenges faced by couples in non-monogamous relationships, including those in the LGBTQ community.

    Last year, over 60 million couples sought therapy to heal their relationships. EFT also emphasizes the importance of the therapeutic alliance between the therapist and the couple. Legal complexities, societal attitudes, and personal concerns can create additional stress and uncertainty. Resilience refers to the ability to adapt and bounce back from difficult experiences, while acceptance involves embracing oneself and one’s partner as they are.

    in-person options: Many LGBTQ couples prefer virtual therapy for convenience or privacy, while others feel more connected face-to-face. It is not medical advice. You might also ask trusted friends, community centers, or LGBTQ organizations in your area or state.

    Tip: Many therapists offer a free 15-20 minute consultation to see if you’re a good fit.

    These stressors can cast a shadow over the relationship, affecting communication and emotional intimacy.

    Gay couples counseling helps couples navigate these challenges by normalizing feelings, fostering resilience, offering coping mechanisms, and empowering partners to face adversity together.

    Additionally, the absence of rigid gender roles and societal expectations may complicate and add nuance to same-sex and non-binary relationships.

    Skill-building exercises equip partners with the tools needed to navigate challenges and communicate effectively. This should be visible on their website or professional directories.

  • Affirming, not just “accepting: You deserve more than tolerance. They’ll control the communication so that attacks are replaced by listening.

    One significant life event that impacts queer relationships is the coming-out process, a journey laden with emotional complexities for some.

    For relationships in which one or more partners is not out, navigating this process together in therapy can allow couples to explore their individual experiences and the impact it may have on their relationship dynamics.

    For relationships in which partners have been out for some time, patterns of being (such as learning to distance oneself from emotions or living with secrets) can continue to influence present day relationships.

    LGBTQ couples counseling can provide a supportive and understanding space for partners to navigate the challenges and changes that accompany a gender transition. This process can have a significant impact on the individual transitioning, as well as their partner. LGBTQ couples therapy should feel like a place where your relationship is not just accepted, but also truly understood.

  • LGBTQ Therapy: FAQs

    Is LGBTQ couples therapy different from traditional therapy?

    Unlike traditional therapy, LGBTQ couples therapy offers an affirming, inclusive space tailored to the unique relational and systemic challenges LGBTQ partners face. 

    How much does LGBTQ therapy cost?

    The cost of LGBTQ couples therapy can vary widely depending on your therapist’s credentials, location, and whether or not they accept insurance.

    Therapy helps you process these stressors together, build resilience, and develop strategies to protect the relationship from outside harm.

  • Intimacy & non-traditional relationships: Diverse relationship structures (e.g. Based on the specific needs of the couple, from time to time we may meet with you individually.

    gay couple on couples therapy

    Through therapy, LGBTQ couples can develop the skills and tools to enhance communication, deepen emotional intimacy, and create a stronger and more fulfilling relationship.

    Tools for Effective Communication in LGBTQ Relationships

    Effective communication is vital in any relationship, but it is even more crucial in LGBTQ relationships.

    LGBTQ couples counseling can provide guidance and support during this process, helping couples communicate effectively, process emotions, and provide emotional support to each other.