In this episode of My Therapist Is Out!, therapists Kristen Crowe (they/them) and Terra Friedman (she/her) unpack how identity-based harm disconnects us from our bodies—and from each other. Through somatic, relational, and systemic lenses, they explore why so many LGBTQ+, BIPOC, disabled, neurodivergent, and immigrant folks feel “too much” in some spaces and “not enough” in others, and how disembodiment can become a survival strategy in unsafe systems. Grounded in real therapy room conversations and lived experience, this episode names the impact of racism, ableism, homophobia, transphobia, and other forms of marginalization—while offering compassionate, practical ways to reconnect with your body, access community care, and remember that you don’t have to be fully healed to take up space or belong.

Takeaways

Identity-based harm targets individuals based on their identity.

Embodiment involves awareness of one's physical and emotional state.

Community care is a collective responsibility for well-being.

Disconnection from the body can lead to isolation.

Healing often occurs within community settings.

Societal norms can create barriers to connection.

Finding the right community can be a gradual process.

It's important to listen to your body's needs.

You don't have to be fully healed to engage with others.

Taking small steps can lead to greater community involvement.

Keywordsidentity-based harm, community care, embodiment, mental health, LGBTQ+, therapy, self-discovery, healing, connection, support

Mentioned in this Episode:

Instagram accounts: @beingqueerinla @silentbookclubla @beingqueerinla @sapphicla @everywhereisqueer @heyfam @queerasiansocialclub

Queer Moment of Joy

Guest 1: Matthew Schmuck He/Him @matthewschmuck

Guest 2: Katherine Kottaras She/They @katherinekotaras

Kristen Crowe BC-DMT, LPCC, CST Bio :

Kristen (they/them) Is Licensed Therapist, Dance Therapist, Sex Therapists and Clinical Director with Open Space Therapy Collective. Kristen specializes in working somatically with adults and partners to help heal the mind-body connection so you can feel more grounded and vibrant every day.

Terra Friedman AMFT Bio:

Terra (she/her) is an Associate Therapist with Open Space Therapy Collective. Terra specializes in working with high achieving womxn who experience anxiety. Terra also works with couples and partners who are currently in or exploring non-monogamous relationships.

To find more from us visit:

Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com

Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective

TikTok: @openspacetherapy

Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut

Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout

YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective