I have been treating members of the LGBTQI community for over twenty years. I have been involved with HIV/ AIDS patients and their loved ones since my work in the early 80's at the Brookyn VA, LIACC and the Gay Men's Health Initiative. I have seen an HIV/ AIDS diagnosis go from an all but certain death sentence to a chronic, albeit life changing illness, which has certainly been a wonderful shift to witness. On the other hand, now that HIV/ AIDS is becoming more "treatable", there is a resurgence of risky behavior both in the gay community and in the heterosexual population, which is posing new challenges in the fight against AIDS.
I have included this letter to inform perspective clients that I am not a self-identified LGBQ person. I share this personal information because some of you might prefer a self-identified therapist. I have received numerous referrals from the Gayellowpages over the years and from time to time, my clients have been disappointed when they learn of my orientation. If this is your concern, there are other listings in Gayellowpages.com, should you wish to continue your search.
However, I hope that you will give me the opportunity to provide for your counseling needs regardless of sexual orientation, as trust and open mindedness is the foundation for every counseling relationship. I am sure that you will quickly learn that I respect and support all lifestyles (as long as they are not dangerous, degrading or violent), races, religious affiliations, genders and sexual orientations, whether or not they are the same as mine or not. One of the values that I feel most proud of is the acceptance and understanding that I provide for my clients, whether they are similar to me in background or vastly different. I am sure that you will feel comfortable with me, should you give me the opportunity.
Sincerely,Hope LaPlante, LCSW
Alternative Lifestyle Links:
www.gayhealth.com (LGBT info and links)
www.glnh.org (Gay and Lesbian National Hotline: 1-888-TheGLNH or 1-888- 843-4564)
www.thebody.com (HIV/ AIDS related information and where to find services)
www.aidscouncilofneny.com (Hudson Valley & Albany HIV/AIDS information)
vsa.vassar.edu/~qcvc/ Queer Coalition of Vassar College (support group and activities at Vassar and in the Poughkeepsie area, Dutchess County)
www.familyequality.org (providing support and forums to introduce LGBT parents and their children to one another)
SOS Homeless Shelters Heating Assistance
Resources Alternative
Lifestyles Warning/
Emergency #'s Contact
