Talkspace is making therapy more accessible to LGBT communities.
Online therapy service Talkspace, launched earlier this year, is catering specifically to the LGBT community.
By recognizing difficult factors that many in the LGBT community face when seeking therapy, Talkspace makes the therapy environment a safe, affordable, and accessible option.
Talkspace Psychotherapist Amy Scarano said, “Identifying as a queer woman can, at times, come with shame and stigma depending on the individual, the background and life circumstances.” She highlights how Talkspace’s option of voice, text, or video allows the client to choose the best form of therapy.
Now, the company has announced the launch of a pro bono initiative. Talkspace is donating a minimum of 500 months of free unlimited messaging therapy every year to individuals that qualify.
The initiative comes as a response to the tragic incident in Orlando. With increasing reports of violence against LGBT individuals in the United States, Talkspace is making a stand against healthcare exclusion.
The rates of poverty among LGBT adults are much higher than those of their heterosexual counterparts. Not only that, but LGBT individuals are three times more likely to develop mental health issues including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
‘Poverty Is An LGBT Issue’ analyzes the data from over 300 low-income LGBT New Yorkers on a range of civil legal issues.
The paper reports that 32% of respondents have experienced problems with public assistance or social security in the past year. This includes applying for and receiving benefits. It was also revealed that 39% of respondents have been verbally harassed in public for being LGBT in the past year as well as 50% of low-income LGBT New Yorkers reporting experiences of violence.
Learn more about Talkspace