June is Pride Month—a time to honor the LGBTQIA+ community’s history, amplify queer voices, and recommit ourselves to equity and inclusion. Yet Pride is more than rainbow flags and parades; it is also a powerful reminder that mental health and identity are inseparable. At Clark Counseling Services, LLC, we believe that everyone deserves affirming, evidence-based care that recognizes the full spectrum of human experience.
Why Mental Health Belongs at Pride
Higher rates of anxiety, depression, and trauma. National surveys consistently show that LGBTQIA+ youth and adults experience significantly higher levels of mental distress than their cisgender, heterosexual peers—often due to discrimination, social rejection, or lack of culturally competent care.
Resilience and community. Pride Month celebrates the strength and solidarity that help queer individuals thrive despite adversity. Mental‐health-affirming spaces turn that resilience into sustainable wellness.
Intersectionality matters. Race, ethnicity, disability, and socioeconomic status intersect with sexual orientation and gender identity, shaping each person’s lived experience. Truly inclusive care meets people at the crossroads of these identities.
Our Commitment to Inclusive, Affirming Care
Culturally competent clinicians. Every therapist on our team receives ongoing training in LGBTQIA+‐affirming practices, trauma-informed care, and gender-affirming documentation.
Gender-affirming paperwork and policies. From intake forms with your correct name and pronouns to private, respectful billing practices, we minimize administrative barriers to care.
Novel, evidence-based options.
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP): For treatment-resistant depression and PTSD, offered in partnership with Journey Clinical.
Nature & Hiking Therapy: Guided sessions in the outdoors that blend movement, mindfulness, and ecological connection—an affirming alternative to the office setting.
Welcoming group spaces. Our new Men’s Wellness & Recovery Group centers emotional health for men (including trans men and nonbinary masc-aligned folks) navigating stress, trauma, and substance use.
Accessible scheduling & financial transparency. Use our secure Online Client Portal to book, reschedule, update insurance, or pay balances—any time, on any device.
Self-Care Tips for LGBTQIA+ Mental Wellness
Curate safe, validating spaces—online and offline—where you can show up authentically.
Practice radical self-compassion. Replace internalized stigma with affirmations that honor your identity.
Move your body—even gently. Research shows that moderate physical activity (like a mindful nature walk) lowers cortisol and boosts mood.
Seek community support. Peer groups, pride centers, and specialized therapy groups provide solidarity and shared wisdom.
Know your crisis resources. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (press 3 for LGBTQ support) and The Trevor Project (1-866-488-7386 or text 678-678) are available 24/7.
How Allies Can Show Up
Listen and learn. Center LGBTQIA+ voices rather than speaking over them.
Challenge stigma. Correct misinformation and call out discriminatory comments when safe to do so.
Support inclusive policies. Advocate for gender-neutral restrooms, inclusive healthcare benefits, and mental-health parity.
Invest in queer businesses and nonprofits. Donate, volunteer, and amplify their work year-round.
Join Us in Celebrating Pride — and Prioritizing Mental Health
If you’re ready to explore therapy, try a nature session, or learn more about KAP, we have immediate openings at both our Windsor, CT and Needham, MA locations (telehealth available throughout CT & MA). Whether you’re seeking individual counseling or a supportive group, Clark Counseling Services, LLC is here to help you thrive—this Pride Month and every month.
Book an appointment, update your information, or message your clinician any time through our secure portal. We can’t wait to walk alongside you on your journey toward authentic, joyful living.
With pride and solidarity, The Clark Counseling Services Team