Nurturing LGBTQ+ Youth in a Supportive Environment
Understanding the complexity of LGBTQ+ identity is fundamental to providing effective support. The term LGBTQ+ represents a spectrum of sexual orientations and gender identities, including but not limited to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, and others.
Recognizing this diversity is crucial for creating an environment that acknowledges and respects individual identities.
Children and adolescents undergo a significant period of self-discovery, including the exploration of their sexual orientation and gender identity.
It is essential to establish a safe and supportive atmosphere that encourages authenticity, allowing young individuals to express themselves without fear of judgment or misunderstanding.
Understanding LGBTQ+ Identity
LGBTQ+ youth encounter various challenges that can impact their mental health and well-being. Social stigma, discrimination, and prejudice are unfortunate realities that may lead to feelings of isolation.
Family rejection and a lack of understanding at home can contribute to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. Additionally, bullying and harassment in educational settings can adversely affect both academic performance and emotional resilience.
Please note: These counseling services are currently available in our Elgin and Bartlett locations only.
How To Address the Challenges Faced by LGBTQ+ Youth
Let’s Chat
- Fostering open communication is paramount.
- Creating an environment where children and adolescents feel comfortable discussing their feelings and experiences is crucial for building trust and understanding.
- Parents, caregivers, and educators should strive to stay informed about LGBTQ+ issues, including the correct terminology and available resources. This knowledge empowers them to support and advocate for the LGBTQ+ youth under their care.
Additional Resources That Can Help
Explore local LGBTQ+ organizations and support groups, where you can find valuable resources, networking opportunities, and a sense of belonging.
Additionally, delve into recommended books, articles, and documentaries that provide insight into LGBTQ+ experiences. These educational materials are designed to help parents, caregivers, and educators better understand and support their LGBTQ+ youth.
Braden Counseling Center is Here to Help
Braden Counseling Center stands ready to offer specialized counseling services tailored to the unique needs of LGBTQ+ youth. Our experienced therapists provide a safe and affirming space for exploration and support.
By embracing open dialogue and providing resources that encourage community connections, we aim to contribute to the well-being and resilience of LGBTQ+ youth.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Together, we can create a nurturing environment that celebrates diversity and promotes the mental health of LGBTQ+ children and adolescents.
If you would like to find out more about LGBTQ+ counseling for kids and adoloscents, contact us today at Braden Counseling Center.
What Our Clients are Saying.....
My counselor Christine K. is very helpful, easy to talk to, makes me feel comfortable, gives great feedback!!!
stacie dishman
16:30 20 Feb 24
Dwayne at Braden counseling goes above and beyond to help his clients. He is very professional and his priorities are all about his clients. I honestly, have to say that Dwayne is an amazing person, and I truly value our working relationships.
Todd Friedewald
00:31 12 Feb 24
David was incredibly great. Most people would feel very closed out and possibly shy as a client. However, David made me feel very comfortable and was very helpful and detailed in conversation while being very professional. I left very satisfied and looking forward to his services!!! Thank you David keep being great !!!
Natalie Hernandez
13:44 06 Feb 24
Highly recommend!
Joseph Dolcimascolo
02:12 31 Jan 24
Braden counseling is outstanding in the work they do Paul has changed my life and helped me so much in understand myself better and transforming me into a better person all around I recommend this center and Paul to anyone keep up the hard work and dedication!
Antonio Diaz
02:14 24 Jan 24
I appreciate the open dialogue allowing attendees to share their thoughts, which enriches the learning experience, but also to have the focused guidance of a counselor to ensure the point of topic.
Joe Freehill
15:18 23 Jan 24
Dwayne is awesome and a pleasure to work with! I will request him every time! Thank you, Dwayne!
Jen Rupp
20:06 15 Dec 23
Dwayne Johnson is very professional and understanding.. Great counselor.. very satisfying
Eva Thompson
01:25 30 Nov 23
I called so many other counseling office first, either no one answer the call or no confirmed days for class, with Braden, right away, walk me through the process, fees and needed information, able to set up appointment next day to do the testing and schedule me the class right way. very helpful, not like some other place asked me to fill out so many medical forms although just 10 hours DUI Risk Education.I am really happy with them, they are also not charge as much as other company.
Lan Hankes
22:56 03 Oct 23
Everyone was very professional and kind!
Cody Neuschwanger
16:49 18 Sep 23
Worked with Dwayne Thomas at the North Aurora location and couldn't be more satisfied with the respect and understanding he operated with. Really knows how to connect and convey the right message.
Bret Van Gampler
23:30 05 Sep 23
Very friendly and did a great job.
Matthew Quirk
21:41 18 Aug 23
I see Amanda Cimaglia and she is by far the most compassionate, respecting and caring counselor I've had. With all the craziness I'm going through she really keeps me grounded. Always listens to me and never ever rushes me but gives me time for her positive feedback.I've always had trouble trusting someone with my issues because I'd find out that the counselor did not go according to her perfession but listen to others to get something out of me. I never had once had that once with Amanda Cimaglia and she let's me work through things I need to at my own pace. And for that I thank her 😊 . She has my mental health at her best interest. Wish there was more counselors out there like her so others can have a safe spot to speak without judgment like I do.From the very bottom of my heart, thank you Amanada Cimaglia and Braden Counseling for having her on board. I'm sure all your staff and team members are just as compassionate ❤️
Maggie Opiola
19:52 26 Jun 23
David Jones is an outstanding counselor. I feel very fortunate to have him as our Lead on Saturday Morning group sessions.
John Boehm
06:31 24 May 23
Staff was amazing. Everything was explained and all questions answered.
Wanda Sutton
23:21 21 Apr 23
understanding compassionate reflextive knowledged tool based
happy holiday
20:10 09 Dec 22
Braden Counseling is a clinic we frequently refer to because of the clinical quality and comprehensive services. All interactions we have had with Braden have been very positive and helpful; excellent coordination of care.
Maggie Miilano
16:57 02 Dec 22
Braden counseling is very good at what they do. They do great things. I’ve been through there system more then once, I recommend them all day every day. Take your pick. I’d say choose one these guys. Very friendly, never mess up and very interactive. If you need anything they are there. I have met a lot of the staff and they all are true and gifted. Thank you Braden counseling for your great works!
Cody Bell
23:02 21 Sep 22
Dr.Braden is an incredible, sweet and motivating leader! I’m so blessed to have found her center to successfully get me through 10 years of care. Everyone should know if I overcame my many obstacles they can too! Work hard and put up a fight!
Lisa Tegeler
00:19 29 Jul 22
As an attorney, finding the right treatment center for my clients is critical to their success. I have been referring my clients to Braden Counseling for years. They are always hard working, professional, and accomodating.
Brian Mirandola
16:59 26 May 22
I love my therapist at Braden, I always feel listened to and I look forward to my visits. All of the staff I've interacted with has been super friendly and helpful, and the environment is very calming. Best therapy center I have been to.
Devon Buza
15:25 25 Jun 21
Very professional and they were extremely nice, I'm happy with my choice of going threw Braden counseling center for my classes!
gage butts
19:43 07 Feb 21
Amazing place
Ralph Burton
16:30 30 Jan 21
Braden Counseling’s staff is outstanding! The counselor conducted herself in a very friendly, courteous, and professional manner. I was treated with dignity and respect. I was put at ease and the evaluation went smoothly, and efficiently. I would definitely recommend Braden Counseling for all of your personal needs.😊
Gregory Link
17:16 21 Jan 21
Excellent first visit with Dr. Braden.
Gary Duffett
21:18 19 Dec 20
My son liked his first visit and is open to going back again.
Veris Nicole
22:36 12 Oct 20
Very friendly and welcoming staff. Highly recommend
Jennifer Rosales
21:50 29 Jul 20
I could not be more satisfied with braden counseling with thier help. Very patient with clients in crisis and need of thier help.
randall nuckles
15:12 09 Jul 20
I truly got the help I needed here and I appreciate all the staff member for making it a comfortable environment to feel free to talk about what's on your mind and making sure you get the proper help you need.
Majah’s Mayhem
19:30 20 May 20
Love the staff .. came here for help and they definitely made a point to take care of all my paper work I needed .. would highly recommend them mostly Nikki shes a great help with anything .. always so cheerfull here 🙂
miguel tovar
00:58 17 Dec 19
All staff very nice, respectful, caring, patientWould definitely recommend
Zack Newby
01:23 18 Nov 19
One word....AMAZING !Very Comprehensive and Professional service. I would Highly Recommend to any one in need.
Joseph Perry
16:58 10 Jul 19
Dr. Jane Braden was absolutely wonderful and help me though my whole dui process, made it easy and help me understand.thank you some much DR. Branden for everything, your the best !!!😜
Sean Battersby
18:46 12 Mar 19
Friendly staff, very professional and results driven
Jeffrey Kerner
13:53 01 Aug 17
Caring staff. Dr Braden was extremely compassionate and supportive during a difficult time. Recommend to anyone!
T Anderson
21:54 06 Apr 16
Braden Counseling center has the finest professionals around. I'd highly recommend their services should a need arise.
Ndisox
03:03 29 Mar 16
Braden Counseling is amazing! Very kind, very friendly staff. Treated me as though I'd been family. I'd recommend them to anyone!
Jessica jorgensen
22:34 24 Mar 16
They have amazing staff. They listen and help out so much I would recommend them to anyone .
Brad Jorgensen
22:33 24 Mar 16
The staff is very welcoming and friendly and professional when you walk through the door!! I had been dealing with some anxiety for some time.... I am so glad I went to Braden counseling my first visit there I felt a sense of being welcomed and actually listened to!! Needless to say when I walked out the door I felt a weight off my shoulders I haven't felt in sometime!! So thank you to your wonderful staff!! I would highly recommend Braden counseling to anyone who is looking for a great counselor to talk with and help with your mental health!!
Deborah Mccoy
19:00 24 Mar 16
I was an emotional wreck when I first went. I was nervous and probably not making a lot of sense. The staff seemed to understand and immediately put me at ease. By the time I left, life just didn’t seem so bad. Thank you Braden Center for being there.
Pam Pascolini
15:57 24 Mar 16
The staff is friendly and courteous. I was amazed at how helpful they were. These people are top notch and very professional. I would highly recommend this office.
Tricia Hernandez
15:45 24 Mar 16
Braden Counseling Center has always been wonderful. Their front staff is very kind and helpful and Dr. Braden is nothing but professional during all encounters I have had with her. Their facility and staff care about providing quality services to their clients. I highly recommend them.
Amanda Poturalski
13:56 24 Mar 16
Would give this place more then 5 stars if I could. I Highly recommend them. Staff is amazing there and so helpful .
Master Shake
21:57 23 Mar 16
I highly recommend Braden Counseling. All the staff there is amazing and very sweet 🙂
Melissa Stathis
21:48 23 Mar 16
Highly recommend this place. Very helpful and always courteous. Ms. Rogers is the best and has excellent skills with people to help them through a multitude of problems.
Sarah Schuyler
20:37 23 Mar 16
Amazing place! The counselors have helped me through some of my lowest points & the girl at the front desk, Cindy, is always super helpful, kind & courteous. Highly recommend!!!
Jennifer Alexander
19:54 23 Mar 16
