Diversity-Affirming Counselling

Sometimes, life might seem as simple as being with the people we love, and doing what we enjoy, and not letting anything else trouble us too much. However the capacity to be content with our lives and cherish ourselves,  may be confused by inaccurate reflections from others, stigma, stereotypes, media misrepresentations and discriminatory attitudes. This causes harm and may lead to us 'masking' and struggling to fit into the traditions and moulds of the wider world around us, or even the expectations set by those we're close to. When we need understanding from others, and do not receive it, then we may be left wondering with questions like:

"Am I accepted?"

"Am I enough?" 

"Do I matter?"

"Do I belong?"

Struggles may include:

• Feeling unsupported or like an 'outsider' at home, in the community or at work

• Challenges in friendships and relationships

• Suffering with emotions such as guilt, rage, and shame

• Feeling afraid of moral judgement, as though you may be rejected, or feeling as though you don't belong

• Any form of out-of-control behaviour connected with feelings of overwhelm or worthlessness

• Loneliness and isolation