Why Pride Matters in 2025—and How Lakeside Counseling Center Stands With the LGBTQIA2S+ Community
At Lakeside Counseling Center, Pride is more than a month. It’s a commitment—a deeply rooted promise to support, affirm, and empower LGBTQIA2S+ individuals not just in June, but every day of the year. In 2025, that commitment feels more urgent and more necessary than ever.
Why Pride Still Matters in 2025
Despite decades of progress, the LGBTQIA2S+ community continues to face discrimination, legislative attacks, and social stigma across the United States—including here in Wisconsin. Mental health disparities remain stark: LGBTQIA2S+ individuals are at higher risk for depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use, and suicidal ideation. Youth, transgender individuals, and BIPOC members of the queer community are particularly vulnerable.
That’s why Pride is still necessary. It’s not just about celebration—it’s about visibility, resilience, and advocacy. It’s about reminding ourselves and others that love is love, that identities are valid, and that everyone deserves to live and thrive without fear.
Our Commitment at Lakeside Counseling Center
At Lakeside Counseling Center, we believe mental health care must be affirming, inclusive, and culturally competent. That’s not just a statement—it’s our practice.
We proudly serve LGBTQIA2S+ individuals and families across Madison, Eau Claire, throughout Wisconsin, and even internationally through our secure virtual therapy platform. Whether someone is navigating gender identity, coming out, relationship transitions, trauma, or simply seeking a safe space to be fully themselves—we are here.
Here’s how we aim to make a difference:
1. Affirming Therapists
Our clinicians are trained and experienced in working with LGBTQIA2S+ clients. We understand the nuances of identity and the impact of minority stress and societal pressures.
2. Gender-Affirming Care
We offer gender-affirming therapy and support for individuals exploring or undergoing social, medical, or legal transitions. We can assist with letters for surgery and HRT when needed, always centering the client’s autonomy and lived experience.
3. Safe Spaces, Online and In-Person
Whether clients walk into our welcoming offices in Madison or Eau Claire, or log in from across the globe, they are met with compassion, confidentiality, and care. Our telehealth platform ensures that geographical distance or mobility challenges never block access to support.
4. Support Beyond the Individual
We offer family and couples therapy to help clients navigate relationships with loved ones, build understanding, and foster acceptance. We also run groups tailored for queer youth, adults, and parents of LGBTQIA2S+ children.
Looking Ahead With Pride
As we celebrate Pride 2025, we reflect on both the struggles and the triumphs of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. We honor the past, embrace the present, and work toward a future where everyone has access to affirming, compassionate mental health care.
Whether you're seeking support, connection, or simply a reminder that you are not alone, we are here for you—in Madison, Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and wherever you call home.
Happy Pride. You matter. You are seen. You are loved.
#Pride2025 #LGBTQMentalHealth #LakesideCounselingCenter #YouBelongHere