June 26, 2025
Pride Month in Toronto is a vibrant time of celebration, connection, and visibility for the 2SLGBTQ+ community. For many of my clients, it offers a rare and meaningful opportunity to feel fully welcomed, respected, and seen. The spirit of Pride is not only about joy and celebration, but also about resilience, diversity, and strength—qualities that are deeply rooted in the lived experiences of queer and trans communities.
As a mental health practitioner, I see how powerful it is when individuals are affirmed in who they are. Finding ways to nurture identity—especially in the face of societal stigma—can be a transformative part of the therapeutic process. My approach is centered around holding a space that is free of judgment, one where clients feel safe to express themselves, explore their experiences, and heal. Many 2SLGBTQ+ clients come to therapy carrying the weight of past bullying, rejection, and invalidation. These experiences often lead to anxiety, depression, or struggles with self-worth. But within these challenges, there is also incredible strength. Reclaiming one’s identity, building self-compassion, and healing from trauma are acts of courage—and often central to the journey of self-acceptance. Practicing self-acceptance is not always easy, coming to therapy while being open and vulnerable can be a difficult thing to do. Allowing a safe space for clients is essential for 2SLGBTQ+ members of the community to feel seen and heard. Bringing oneself to a new space can be challenging.
As a psychotherapist my intention is to allow clients to feel they belong through navigating the therapeutic journey. Pride Month brings increased visibility to these narratives. It helps shift the focus from merely surviving to thriving. Yet we must also acknowledge that systemic discrimination and marginalization still exist. This is why affirmative therapy practices are so important: they not only validate clients’ experiences but actively work to dismantle the barriers that impact mental health care for queer and trans individuals. There is much to celebrate. From legal milestones in marriage equality to growing representation in media and culture, the 2SLGBTQ+ community has achieved meaningful progress. But feeling proud isn’t always easy. For some, embracing their identity can be a struggle shaped by fear, isolation, or rejection. In these cases, just being who you are—openly and unapologetically—can be a radical and powerful act of self-love.
This Pride Month, I want to honor the bravery of my clients and community members who continue to show up, speak out, and seek healing. Your stories matter. Your truth matters. And your well-being is worth celebrating-this and every month. Wishing you a joyful, safe, and empowering Pride.
Written by Brian Woodford - Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
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