Pride in the Holler – Honoring Our Roots, Lifting Our Voices
As June begins and we welcome Pride Month, it’s a time to celebrate the incredible strength and resilience of LGBTQ+ communities everywhere – including right here in the holler. While Pride is often associated with big cities and parades, it’s just as vital, if not more so, in rural areas like Eastern Kentucky.
At Counseling in the Holler, we believe in the power of visibility, compassion, and safe spaces. I know that living in a small town can bring unique challenges and unique joys, especially for LGBTQ+ folks. And as a lifelong resident of Eastern Kentucky myself, I see firsthand the courage it takes to live authentically in a place where resources and acceptance aren’t always easy to come by.
🏳️🌈 Why Visibility Matters in Rural Areas
Research shows that LGBTQ+ people in rural areas often face higher rates of isolation and stigma compared to those in urban areas (Movement Advancement Project). Many of us grew up hearing that being different isn’t safe or that we should keep our voices quiet. But when we’re visible, we show that we’re here, we’re part of our communities, and we deserve respect and love like anyone else.
Pride Month is a chance to lift our voices and say: We belong here. We’re proud of who we are and where we come from. And we’re not going anywhere.
Our Commitment to Inclusivity and Safe Spaces
At Counseling in the Holler, our mission is rooted in listening and empathy. We honor the unique experiences of each person who walks through our virtual doors. Whether you’re out, questioning, or somewhere in between, you deserve a safe and affirming space to explore your identity and your mental health.
We live by the core values of honesty, open-mindedness, lifelong growth, active listening, empathy, and resilience. These guide our approach to therapy, and they’re especially important for LGBTQ+ folks who’ve often had to fight for their voices to be heard.
Here’s what you can expect from us:
✅ A judgment-free zone where you can talk about anything
✅ Respect for your story and your lived experiences
✅ Tools and support to help you navigate challenges and celebrate your strengths
✅ Acknowledgment that healing doesn’t mean changing who you are – it means embracing your whole self
Resources for LGBTQ+ Folks in Rural Spaces
While rural areas can sometimes feel isolating, you’re not alone. Here are some resources that might help you find connection and support:
🔹Trevor Project – Crisis support and resources for LGBTQ+ youth
🔹PFLAG – Support for LGBTQ+ people, families, and allies
🔹GLAAD’s Resources – A collection of resources for LGBTQ+ communities
🔹Camp Beacon – https://www.campbeacon.org/ – Kentucky’s first summer camp for LGBTQ youth, fostering belonging, acceptance, and leadership
🔹CenterLink’s list of LGBT community centers in your state: https://www.lgbtcenters.org/LGBTCenters
🔹Lambda Legal help desk for legal assistance: https://www.lambdalegal.org/helpdesk
🔹Learn more about the laws and policies in your state: http://www.lgbtmap.org/equality-maps
By Phone
🔹TrevorLifeLine for young people by phone: 1-866-488-7386
🔹TrevorText for young people by text: Text “START” to 678678
🔹Trans Lifeline for transgender, non-binary, and gender-questioning people: 877-565-8860
🔹LGBT National Senior Hotline for LGBT older adults: 888-234-7243
A Personal Note
As a queer person from the holler, I know how important it is to see someone who “gets it” – someone who understands the power of community, the complexity of identity, and the weight of living in a place that doesn’t always feel welcoming. My own journey has shown me that authenticity and belonging aren’t just buzzwords – they’re lifelines.
That’s why I started this practice: to offer a safe place to heal, to learn, and to grow – no matter who you are or where you come from.
Let’s Honor Our Roots and Lift Our Voices
This Pride Month, let’s celebrate who we are and where we’re from. Let’s honor our roots and the people who’ve paved the way for us. Let’s lift each other up, listen to each other’s stories, and build a holler where everyone can thrive.
If you’re looking for a safe, affirming space to talk, I’m here to walk alongside you. You’re not alone in this journey – and you never have to be.
Want to schedule a session?
If you or someone you care about is struggling with mental health, addiction, discrimination, identity challenges, or just navigating life’s changes, please remember: you’re not alone. At Counseling in the Holler LLC, I’m here to offer compassionate support for folks across Kentucky—children and teens (ages 7-17), and adults (18+). Don’t hesitate to reach out. Healing and hope are possible, and I’m ready to walk alongside you.
