LGBTQ+ Therapy: Healing the Violence Within
In the Netflix series Sense8, Nomi Marks says: “The real violence, the violence I realised was unforgivable, is the violence that we do to ourselves, when we’re too afraid to be who we really are.” For many LGBTQ+ people, this truth feels all too real. While discrimination, stigma, and rejection from the outside world can hurt deeply, it is often the inner violence of fear, shame, and self-judgement that wounds us the most.
At Tribe Wellness, we believe therapy can be a powerful way to confront and heal this inner violence — creating space for authenticity, self-acceptance, and growth.
Why Inner Violence Hurts LGBTQ+ Mental Health
Self-abandonment: Ignoring or rejecting parts of who you are to “fit in” or stay safe.
Self-judgement: Harsh inner criticism that keeps you small and afraid.
Fear of authenticity: Avoiding being fully yourself because you worry about how others will react.
Research shows that LGBTQ+ people are disproportionately affected by anxiety, depression, and stress due to both external stigma and internalised negative beliefs. Growth begins when we name these patterns and work to change them.
How LGBTQ+ Therapy Helps Quiet the Inner Critic
LGBTQ+ affirming counselling provides a safe and supportive space where you don’t have to hide. Through therapy, you can:
Reclaim your story: Explore your identity on your own terms.
Quiet the inner critic: Learn strategies to challenge unhelpful thought patterns.
Build resilience: Develop coping tools for moments of fear or shame.
Step into authenticity: Feel supported to live as your whole, true self.
👉 Curious about how affirming therapy could help you? At Tribe Wellness, we offer free 15-minute intro calls so you can explore whether therapy feels right for you.
Practical Steps to Overcome Fear and Shame
Notice your inner dialogue: Ask yourself, “Would I speak to a friend this way?”
Practice compassion: Replace harsh thoughts with kinder ones, even if it feels awkward at first.
Reach out for support: Connection with affirming therapists and community can soften the impact of inner violence.
Breaking the Stigma Around Queer Mental Health
It’s OK not to be OK. There’s courage in admitting you’re struggling, and there’s power in seeking help. Therapy is not about “fixing” you — it’s about helping you feel safe, strong, and free to be exactly who you are.
If you’re looking for a gay therapist in Melbourne or LGBTQ+ counselling across Australia, Tribe Wellness offers secure online support wherever you are.
How Allies Can Support LGBTQ+ Loved Ones
If you notice a friend or partner caught in cycles of shame or fear, gentle support matters. Ask open-ended questions, remind them they’re not alone, and encourage them to seek affirming help if needed.
Start Your LGBTQ+ Counselling Journey Today
At Tribe Wellness, we provide LGBTQ+ affirming counselling via secure telehealth across Australia. There’s no waitlist, and your first 15-minute consult is free — a safe way to see if therapy feels right for you.
👉 Book your free intro call today.
Disclaimer: This blog article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your GP or qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Tribe Wellness is not an emergency or crisis service. If you need immediate support or feel unsafe because you are experiencing suicidal or self-harm thoughts, please contact Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467, Beyondblue 1300 22 46 36 or Lifeline 13 11 14. For emergency help, call 000.