Supporting people from LGBTQIA+ Communities Through Cancer: The Role of a Clinical Psychologist
Receiving a cancer diagnosis is often experienced as life-changing and, for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, it may also come with some additional challenges. Healthcare systems continue to struggle with issues around inclusivity and the needs of the LGBTQIA+ communities are often overlooked or ignored. People who identify as LGBTQIA+ with cancer, like everyone, benefit from tailored support that acknowledges their unique lived-experiences. As a clinical psychologist specialising in psycho-oncology and LGBTQIA+ mental health, I see my role as providing affirming care that helps individuals manage the emotional and psychological impact of cancer and its treatment.
How a Clinical Psychologist Can Help
1. Providing a Safe & Affirming Space
Many people within the LGBTQIA+ communities have experienced discrimination or stigma, including within healthcare settings. A supportive therapeutic space can help process these experiences, while fostering resilience and self-advocacy. My approach to therapy aims to ensure that all people are respected, using inclusive language and affirming interventions tailored to each person’s needs.
2. Coping with Healthcare Discrimination & Medical Trauma
Negative past experiences of healthcare can contribute to difficulties to engaging with the medical care recommended to treat cancer. These experiences may lead to mistrust of medical, nursing and allied health professionals, which in turn may make it difficult to make decisions about treatment. Therapy can help process past trauma, develop helpful coping strategies, and build confidence navigating the healthcare system. For those worried about being misgendered, dismissed, or having their chosen family excluded from care decisions, I can offer support to explore ways to advocate for their needs.
3. Managing Anxiety, Depression & Distress
A cancer diagnosis often triggers a range of emotions, including fear, anger, and grief, in addition to concerns around uncertainty. Evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based therapies can help increase understanding and management of anxiety and depression, in addition to building resilience and improving overall well-being.
4. Supporting Identity & Body Image Concerns
Cancer treatments can sometimes result in significant changes to the body. This is often distressing for anyone with cancer, but it can be particularly challenging for trans and gender-diverse individuals. Whether it’s managing the psychological impact of living with the scars of surgery, hormone therapy disruptions, changes in physical appearance, or changes in bodily sensations, therapy can offer a space to process and navigate these challenges while reinforcing a positive sense of self.
5. Strengthening Relationships & Support Networks
People identifying as part of the LGBTQIA+ communities may rely on chosen family rather than biological relatives for support. Therapy can help individuals communicate their needs, navigate disclosure of their diagnosis, and foster stronger connections with partners, friends, and support groups.
6. Addressing Grief, Loss & Existential Concerns
A cancer diagnosis can bring feelings of loss—whether it’s related to health, physical changes, fertility, role changes, or grief regarding future plans. Therapy offers a space to process the emotions related to loss, offer an opportunity for meaning-making, and cultivate post-traumatic growth. For people facing end-of-life concerns, I provide compassionate guidance in planning care that respects identity and chosen family structures.
7. Advocating for Inclusive Cancer Care
Beyond individual therapy, I am committed to advocating for LGBTQIA+ inclusive oncology care. By working with healthcare providers, promoting education on LGBTQIA+ health disparities, and ensuring affirming spaces, we can improve the overall experience of cancer care for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
You Are Not Alone
No one should have to face cancer alone, and people within the LGBTQIA+ communities deserve care that acknowledges and respects their unique experiences. If you or a loved one are navigating cancer and seeking support, I am here to help.
For more information or to book an appointment, visit www.iconpsychology.com.au
Pride and Mental Health: How Celebrating Identity Boosts Emotional Wellbeing
Pride and Mental Health
In a world where people identifying as LGBTQIA+ have historically faced stigma and discrimination, Pride events are more than just celebrations. They are a powerful declaration of self-acceptance and resilience. For the LGBTQIA+ community in Melbourne, pride events like the iconic Midsumma Festival and Pride March (Sunday 2nd February 2025) offer more than colourful parades and joyful gatherings. They provide opportunities to affirm identity, foster connection, and offer the potential to bolster people’s mental health.
Here, I explore how celebrating pride can positively impact emotional wellbeing and share tips for making the most of these affirming experiences.
The Psychological Benefits of Pride
1. Boosting Self-Esteem Celebrating Pride can be an act of self-affirmation. For many, participating in events that honour LGBTQIA+ identities helps to counteract internalised stigma and shame, fostering a sense of self-worth and empowerment. Seeing one’s identity represented and celebrated can validate lived-experiences and instil confidence in embracing who you are.
2. Building Community Connection One of the most impactful aspects of Pride events is the opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences. In a vibrant and diverse city like Melbourne, Pride celebrations bring together people from all walks of life, creating a sense of belonging and reducing feelings of isolation. Forming connections within LGBTQIA+ communities can be a vital source of emotional support and contribute to building resilience and self-esteem.
3. Reducing Loneliness Loneliness is a common challenge for people identifying as part of the LGBTQIA+ communities. This is particularly true for people who have experienced rejection from family or social circles. Pride events create safe spaces where individuals can meet other people who are more likely to accept and celebrate them. These connections can be a lifeline for people who otherwise feel alone.
4. Reclaiming Joy Pride is a celebration of joy and authenticity. In the face of systemic challenges, reclaiming happiness and embracing moments of collective joy can have profound mental health benefits. These celebrations remind us of the strength and vibrancy of the LGBTQIA+ communities.
Pride in Melbourne: A Hub of Celebration and Connection
Melbourne’s Pride events are known to be some of the most inclusive and diverse in Australia. The annual Midsumma Festival, which spans several weeks in January and February, features a wide range of events, from art exhibitions to live performances, culminating in the much-anticipated Pride March in St Kilda. These events provide spaces where people identifying as LGBTQIA+ and their allies come together to honour identity and community.
Celebrating Pride Beyond the Events
Whilst Pride events are a focal point of celebration, affirming one’s identity shouldn’t be limited to specific dates on the calendar. Here are some ways to nurture Pride in your daily life:
Connect with LGBTQIA+ Art and Literature: Melbourne boasts a wealth of ‘queer art’ and literature. Explore works that celebrate LGBTQIA+ stories to feel seen and inspired.
Join Community Groups: Many local organisations host regular meetups and support networks to foster ongoing connection.
Seek Affirming Therapy: Working with a psychologist or counsellor who understands LGBTQIA+ experiences can help you explore and affirm your identity in a supportive environment.
Overcoming Barriers to Celebration
For some, participating in Pride events or openly celebrating identity can be challenging. Fear of judgment, past trauma, or feelings of vulnerability may make public celebrations feel overwhelming. If this resonates with you, remember that Pride can be celebrated in ways that feel authentic and safe to you. This might include connecting with online LGBTQIA+ communities, journaling about your journey, or working with a therapist to navigate these feelings.
Mental Health Tips for Pride Season
Manage Overwhelm: Large events can be overstimulating. Take breaks when needed and be aware of your limits. It’s OK to step back or leave events when your ‘social battery’ is running on empty.
Prioritise Self-Care: Ensure you have time to rest and recharge, especially if Pride events stir up difficult emotions.
Celebrate at Your Own Pace: Pride looks different for everyone. Whether you attend every event or celebrate privately, your experience is valid.
The Role of Affirming Therapy in Fostering Pride
Therapy can play a crucial role in helping people who identify as LGBTQIA+ embrace their identities and overcome internalised stigma and shame. Having supported people within LGBTQIA+ communities for over a decade, I have a lot of experience in providing affirming care tailored to the unique challenges people face. Whether you’re seeking support for your mental health, or support with coming out, with managing family dynamics, or just in need of a space to explore aspects of your identity, my practice offers a safe and compassionate space to help navigate these issues without judgement.
Celebrate You
Pride is more than an event – it’s a celebration of who you are. Whether you join the crowds at the Midsumma Pride March, or take quiet moments to reflect on your own experience, embracing Pride in any of its forms has the potential to have a positive impact on your mental health and emotional wellbeing.
If you’re ready to explore your journey with the support of an experience of Clinical Psychology who is also part of the LGBTQIA+ community, reach out to me at Icon Psychology.