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