By Stephanie Kennedy, MSW, RSW

A common topic that I explore in a therapeutic setting with clients is their questioning about their gender identities and/or sexual orientation. The questioning of one’s connection to oneself and others can show up in many ways.  Perhaps it shows up in feelings of “confusion”, as in “What is this?”, or in ways of feeling “shameful” for not “conforming” to heterosexual expectations and uncertainty of where they land on the infinity of gender and sexuality. Almost every thought ending in a question mark brings in the notion that the prescribed binaries of gender identity and sexual orientation do not fit into the person you are. As each of us is a unique individual, composed of a slightly different mix of DNA, so are our perceptions of ourselves and our relationships with other people. 

Through sessions, I have supported individuals in exploring the words and meanings of their feelings, thoughts, and perspectives that they may be questioning about themselves. Through exploration, we often find the answers to the questions we have, which can lead to a more fulfilling relationship with ourselves as we continue our life’s journey of discovery.