seekcomfort. seek hope. seek healing.
seek sanctuary.
Affirming therapy... beyond welcoming
We're often asked, "So what do you mean by LGBTQ affirming therapy?" A good question. At first glance, therapy for someone who identifies as LGBTQ is exactly the same as for someone who does not. We are all susceptible to the same anxieties, broken hearts, stressors, depression, family tension, and all those other emotional and mental health concerns that are sometimes a difficult part of being human.
Our sexual and gender identities are just two of the many lenses through which we experience life. But how influential those lenses can be! How much they shape our understnading of ourselves and the world through which we move! Being a member of the LGBTQ community is not one's only identity, by any means. Yet it is an important facet, and one that your counselor must fully understand to be most effective in supporting you.
Our staff has been researching and serving the needs of LGBTQ people for over 15 years. Thankfully, there are a growing number of counselors who desire to be welcoming and supportive. Unfortunately, not all are prepared with the training and experience to be truly affirming and effective in meeting your needs. Sanctuary Counseling goes beyond promises of acceptance to provide competent, experienced, and affirming therapy services to the LGBTQ community.
It's not just something we are prepared to do once in awhile, it is an intentional and dedicated part of our practice. We are proud to note that approximately half of our clients identify as lesbian, gay, bi, trans... or somewhere in between.
We look forward to welcoming you, affirming you, and supporting you on your journey to being your whole and best self.
Different Experiences, One Community
Most of our group members tell us that they come to Sanctuary Counseling to connect with community. Perhaps you are searching for support within a group that truly understands. Perhaps you are interested in lending your own insights to support those around you. Perhaps you are looking for resources or other important information. Whatever your needs, we invite you to join us as we all experience a sense of connection and community within a safe and affirming group setting.
PRE-REGISTRATION FOR ALL GROUPS IS REQUIRED. Please call us before planning to attend: 610-385-3155.
To see our flyer for additional information, please click HERE.
To see a calendar including this and other upcoming events, please click HERE.
To join our mailing list, please send us an EMAIL.
IMPORTANT Announcement:
Our friends at Reading PFLAG need YOUR help! They are conducting an important survey that will determine the future of the Reading chapter of PFLAG. To thank you for your time, completed surveys will be entered in a drawing for a FREE $50 gift certificate to Canal St. Pub! Surveys must be completed by August 15, 2009. It only takes a few minutes. You need not have attended a meeting to participate. Simply follow this link:
Reading PFLAG Survey
A haven of safety...
Sanctuary provides affirming counseling services specifically encompassing the unique experiences and stresses faced by LGBTQ individuals, couples, and families. We strive to provide a safe place for members of the community to receive counseling and support.
In addition, children within LGBTQ families, as well as youth questioning their sexual and/or gender identities receive counseling from affirming psychotherapists.
Reading, PA celebrated its first PRIDE Festival in 2007, and Sanctuary has been there from the beginning. We look forward to seeing you again in Centre Park on July 19th, 2009!
We were a proud Co-Organizer of the 2009 National Equality Rally at Independence Hall in Philadelphia!