LGBTQ+

Family dynamics make it hard to share openly.

I believe that leading with authenticity is essential, especially when inspiring others to do the same. To honor that value, I want to share my own journey with sexual orientation.

My journey began early in childhood, marked by an innate attraction to girls. But with zero visibility of same-sex couples around me, I felt entirely isolated. Driven by trust issues, a fear of parental rejection, and the overwhelming pressure to conform, I ultimately chose relationships with men.

In my early twenties, I could no longer ignore my attraction to women and decided to pursue a same-sex relationship. Seeking out local LGBTQ+ groups, I discovered a vibrant, exciting community. As I began dating women, I finally felt connected to my true desires.

However, when I shared this with my family, their initial response was shock and disappointment. Driven by public perception and external validation, they treated my identity as a problem to be solved—insisting that no one in our circle could find out. I was left feeling that I was disappointing my family, carrying a heavy burden of shame and guilt.

There is a sacrifice for hiding the truth.

In my mid-twenties, I moved to the US for graduate school, where I met my partner shortly after arriving. We built a life together and shared a home for several years. Meanwhile, my family’s disapproval hardened into vocal shame, sparking deep conflict between us. I felt torn and trapped in a heartbreaking choice between the people who raised me and the woman I loved.

With my relationship kept completely hidden from my extended family, sharing the truth felt out of the question. Ultimately, I allowed my family’s pressure to dictate my choices—a decision that fractured my relationship and contributed to its painful end in 2008. I chose to date men again and got married in 2015.

Change is possible.

During my years working with therapy clients, everything changed. I watched LGBTQ+ clients navigate the world with immense courage, choosing truth over conformity. Their resilience, authenticity, and fierce boundaries became an inspiration for my own life.

Witnessing their journeys didn’t just help them heal, it inspired my own path to self-love and gave me the courage to come out for the second time.

If you are currently at a crossroads with your sexual orientation, or if you have made sacrifices that conflict with your true self, I would be happy to support you on your journey.

I firmly believe that no one should ever have to compromise on the love they desire or the life they want to live as I did.

Take the first step in your healing journey to embrace who you are!

Let’s connect.