You’re one of the few, proud, LGBTQIA+ women in the workplace. You’ve worked hard to get where you are, and now you’re faced with a whole new set of challenges. Perhaps, you’re the only LGBTQIA+ woman in your office. So, when any of your colleagues want an opinion on “the gay experience”, you’re the one they turn to, whether you like it or not.
Maybe, you’re constantly being asked to explain your pronouns, or having assumptions made about your sexual orientation. It can be frustrating and tiring to have to explain yourself all the time. But, there are ways to navigate these challenges. As therapists at Moxie Family Therapy, our team is ready to support you during these challenging times in an LGBTQIA+ affirming environment.
You Have the Right to Feel Comfortable in Your Work Environment
First and foremost, you deserve to feel comfortable and safe in your work environment. You have every right to be in the office and to do your job without feeling like you have to hide who you are. Some workplace environments are more supportive of LGBTQIA+ employees than others. But, if you don’t feel comfortable in your current workplace, it might be time to look elsewhere.
Go to HR or Your Supervisor
If you don’t feel comfortable in your work environment, or if you feel like you’re being discriminated against, it’s important to speak up. Talk to your supervisor or HR about your concerns. They should be able to help you resolve these issues or at least make your workplace more comfortable for you. Plus, maybe you can talk to them about training for your colleagues on LGBTQIA+ issues. Information is power. Hopefully, with more understanding, your colleagues will be more mindful in the future.
Be Aggressive! Be-Be Aggressive!
In some cases, the best way to handle these situations is to go on the offense. By no means should you put up with discrimination or harassment. But, sometimes a little assertiveness is all it takes to set things straight. If someone makes a comment that you find offensive, or if they ask you an invasive question, don’t be afraid to speak up.
You can also use humor as a tool to shut them down. If someone says something that is not appropriate, make a joke and diffused the situation. For example, you could say something like, “Wow, I can’t believe you just asked me that! Do you ask all your colleagues about their sex lives?” And, if all else fails, you can always go to HR.
EMDR Therapy in Orange County Can Help If You’re Struggling
If you’re struggling with the challenges of being an LGBTQIA+ woman in the workplace, EMDR therapy is a great option. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocess (EMDR) can help you process the negative emotions you might be feeling. But, also help to heal from traumas, including the microaggressions that you might experience in the workplace.
With EMDR Therapy You Can Work With a Therapist to Overcome These Challenges
This can be an opportunity to work through any past traumas that might be affecting you, as well as to develop healthy coping mechanisms for the future. You can learn tools to help you deal with the challenges of being an LGBTQIA+ woman in the workplace, and come out stronger on the other side. For example, you might learn how to better deal with microaggressions, or how to build a support system at work. Or, learn how to be more assertive when necessary.
Inclusion is Important
With the newer generations, there is a growing acceptance of the LGBTQIA+ community. But, that doesn’t mean that there isn’t still work to be done. However, with you and other LGBTQIA+ employees speaking up and demanding to be heard, workplaces will slowly become more inclusive environments. It can be tiring and difficult to be a minority in the workplace but know that you’re not alone. There are many other LGBTQIA+ women out there who understand your struggle. Plus, by informing your colleagues and demanding inclusion, you’re making the workplace better for future generations.
Begin EMDR Therapy in Orange County
Being an LGBTQIA+ woman in the workplace can be challenging. But, you don’t have to go through it alone. If you’re struggling to cope with the challenges of being a minority in the workplace, EMDR therapy can help. Our team of caring therapists is here to help you process your emotions and prepare for the challenges ahead. To start your therapy journey with Moxie Family Therapy, please follow these simple steps:
- Contact Moxie Family Therapy
- Meet with a caring postpartum anxiety therapist
- Gain support and Understanding
Other Therapy Services Offered at Moxie Family Therapy
At Moxie Family Therapy, we know workplace struggles can take a toll on your mental health. But, they may not be the only worry you have. This is why our therapists provide a variety of therapy services online and in-person at our Orange County, CA-based practice. We offer counseling for young adults, children, women, teens, and couples. Additionally, we offer therapy for therapists, clinical supervision, adoption therapy, art therapy, and play therapy. Our team is also happy to support the LGBTQ+ community. Contact us today and learn how we can help you reclaim your moxie.