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“When Queer People are in Crisis, AI isn’t a Safe Space”

As anti-LGBTQ hostility rises, chatbots may feel comforting, but neutrality and algorithms can’t replace intersectional, affirming mental health care.An OpEd by IHI Executive Director Tara Lombardo.
IHI in the news
H+H to Train Mental Health Providers on LGBTQ+-Affirming Therapy
NYC Health + Hospitals partners with IHI to deliver advanced clinical training in LGBTQ+-affirming psychotherapy.
Read more (opens in a new tab)IHI Executive Director Tara Lombardo, LMHC, on NY1 News
Interview with NY1 anchor Stef Manisero discussing the importance of LGBTQ+-affirming psychotherapy.
Read more (opens in a new tab)
NYC Health + Hospitals Partners With The Institute For Human Identity For LGBTQ+ Therapy Training
NYC Health + Hospitals’ Office of DEI enters strategic partnership with IHI.
Read more (opens in a new tab)
Charles Silverstein, 87, Dies; Helped Destigmatize Homosexuality
IHI founder’s obituary featured in the New York Times.
Read more (opens in a new tab)
Publications
A sample of our current and former staff authors includes:
- Robert McVey, LCSWWe Have a Pie (opens in a new tab)
- Suzanne Iasenza, Ph.DLesbians and Psychoanalysis (opens in a new tab)
- Charles Silverstein, Ph.DThe Joy of Gay Sex (opens in a new tab)andFor the Ferryman (opens in a new tab)
- Jack Drescher, MDPsychoanalytic Theory and the Gay Man (opens in a new tab)
- Peter Melillo, LCSWFor Man and Country, Gay War Stories (opens in a new tab)
FAQ
Any Questions?
What is affirming care?
Affirming care therapy creates a space where people can explore their experiences openly while recognizing the real impact that stigma, discrimination, and social inequities can have on mental health. It is the foundation of our care.
Shouldn’t all LGBTQ+ therapy be affirming?
Ideally, yes. But LGBTQ+ identities are not always recognized and affirmed as part of the rich diversity of human experience.
Can you tell me more about the treatments you offer?
- Identity exploration: Sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and coming out (at any stage of life)
- Mental health: Depression, eating disorders, grief, anxiety, phobias, stress, PTSD and trauma, substance abuse
- Stress: Navigating systemic discrimination, microaggressions, and identity trauma
- Relationships of all types: Navigating interpersonal, intimacy, and communication challenges
- Family and relationships: LGBTQ+ parenting, family-building, and youth advocacy
- Relationship models and structures: Specialized care for individuals in non-traditional relationship styles, including polyamory and consensual non-monogamy
- Dedicated therapy groups: Centering on Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, as well as those experiencing grief and loss, trauma recovery, PTSD, depression, couples communication, divorce and separation, and other life transitions
What are examples of the kinds of questions you help people answer?
We engage with broader issues of identity, transition, mental health, coming out, queer relationships, and navigating polyamory. But we also understand and celebrate what makes every person different, helping address questions as diverse as:
- How do I get divorced as a queer person with kids?
- How do I deal with the myriad challenges of “second adolescence” in adulthood?
- Can you provide guideposts as I transition, navigate surgeries, manage my expectations, and work through relationships with family and friends?
- How and where do I put natural feelings of anger and frustration as I navigate the lived experience of a queer person?
Do I have to identify as LGBTQ+ to receive services?
While many of our clients identify as LGBTQ+, our services are open to anyone seeking affirming, culturally responsive care.
I'm underinsured. Can you help?
We’re here for you. Our cash rates are less than half the average cost of therapy in NYC. You can learn more about our insurance, fee, and care options here.
Do you offer virtual therapy?
Yes, we offer in-person and virtual therapy options for clients located in New York State. Availability varies by therapist.