At Park bench, we make a special point to reach out loving care and support to members of the LGBT community.
There is no one right way to love another person. As Pierre Trudeau once famously said, “The government has no business in the bedrooms of the nation.” The relationship between two consenting adults is a matter for them and only them to determine.
Same-sex attraction has existed since time immemorial. It is well described in classical antiquity. Plato and Aristotle wrote treatises on the subject of homosexuality as a form of population control and other elements.
It goes without saying, however, that prejudice and animosity towards those who are romantically attracted to their own gender has also been widely prevalent. Even in the present age, gay people are unsafe in many countries and may have to conceal their identity.
In 2006, an organization called the Rainbow Railroad was founded with the purpose of assisting gay and lesbian individuals to escape from dangerous situations and seek safe harbour.
Further information can be found at https://www.rainbowrailroad.org/
At Park Bench Counselling Services, we provide care and support to members of the LGBT community with the same love and respect we show to other people. We do not view homosexuality or gender fluidity as mental illness but rather as variations on a human theme.
People in the LGBT community experience stresses and problems in life just like everyone else. In addition, they face very special challenges such as the often-stressful process of coming out to family and friends, stigma and judgement in social relationships and the workplace, social acceptance, special challenges in dating, the fear of sexually transmitted infections, and many others.
Mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety are special challenges for members of the LGBT community. Young people in the gay community are particularly subject to thoughts of self-harm and even suicidal ideation.
People who are exploring same-sex romantic relationships and those who consider themselves to be on the gender spectrum will be offered first class care and respect throughout their time with Park Bench Counselling Services and will never have to worry about being judged for who they are.