Loving an LGBTQ+ Person
Your family member or loved one has come out to you as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, in whatever form that takes for them. It is important to know that while your feelings in response to this information are valid, the way you respond to your loved one could be invalidating. You want to be supportive and loving, but you might feel confused, sad, or even scared, and don’t know how to break through these feelings.
Some of what you are going through could be due to a general lack of information: you may not be familiar with terms like transgender or nonbinary; you may be wondering what to expect. It can be helpful to your loved one if you do not put the onus of explaining all of this on them. Processing this information on your own, with help, will allow you to be more supportive.
It takes a lot to let someone you love into your truth, and it is important to respect the person sharing this information and let this be about them. You need a space to express your feelings and learn so that you can support your loved one as best as you possibly can.
There is often a difference between your initial reaction and your processed reaction. Even if you regret your initial reaction to this kind of information, especially if you regret it, you can learn to be accepting and even encouraging.
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Maintaining an Open Relationship
There are many terms that fall under the umbrella of an open relationship:
- Polyamory
- Consensual or ethical non-monogamy
- Swinging
- Mono-Poly Relationships
- Triads
- Monogamish
- Kitchen Table
- Parallel
- DADT (Don’t ask don’t tell)
Whether you are questioning monogamy, a couple who has just decided to open up, or a couple who has made this decision but is struggling with it, Aikotek can help.
This is not therapy. Open relationship coaching will give you tools to better communicate with yourself and your partner(s). Coaching can help you navigate difficult situations and find the best ways for you to be ethical and clear with yourself, your partner(s), and any potential partner(s).