Celebrating Pride with Purpose: LGBTQIA+ mental health resources

Pride Month is more than a celebration: it's a time for reflection on resilience, a recognition of the ongoing fight for equality, and a recommitment to the well-being of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Historically, queer communities have faced systemic marginalization, including in healthcare and mental health services. Despite decades of activism and progress, many LGBTQIA+ people still encounter barriers to affirming care, especially those at the intersections of race, class, gender identity, and sexual orientation. That’s why queer-specific mental health resources are vital. They provide not only support, but also validation, understanding, and community—key elements in building and sustaining emotional wellness. As we honor the legacy of queer pioneers and the spirit of Pride, it's crucial to uplift and share resources that center LGBTQ+ voices and experiences.

Below is a list of accessible resources supporting the mental and emotional well-being of the LGBTQIA+ community in the Charlottesville, VA region.

Organization Highlights

• Charlottesville Pride Community Network
  Connecting the LGBTQ+ community through events, advocacy, and support, CPCN plays a key role in fostering visibility and inclusion in Central Virginia.

• Rivanna Area Queer Center (RAQC)
  A hub for queer community connection and mutual aid, RAQC offers both in-person and virtual programming for individuals across the gender and sexuality spectrum.

• PFLAG of Greater Charlottesville
  A chapter of the nation's largest LGBTQ+ family and ally organization, offering peer support, education, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ people and their loved ones.

• Virginia Anti-Violence Project (VAVP)
  Supporting LGBTQ+ survivors of violence through trauma-informed care, VAVP provides community-centered training, advocacy, and crisis response across Virginia.

Mental Health & Health Resources for the LGBTQ+ Community

• UVA LGBTQ+ Healthcare Services
  Inclusive and affirming medical services with dedicated support for transgender, nonbinary, and queer individuals.

• Planned Parenthood South Atlantic – Gender Affirming Care
  Offering hormone therapy and referrals, as well as educational resources tailored to the needs of trans and nonbinary people.

• Region Ten LGBTQ+ Support Groups
  Free, local peer support groups focusing on identity, mental health, and building affirming community spaces.

• Women’s Initiative Mosaic Program
  Providing culturally responsive mental health services with a focus on inclusion and trauma-informed care for LGBTQ+ individuals.

• On Our Own – Queer Support Groups
  Peer-run mental health recovery and wellness support groups designed specifically for queer and trans individuals.

• VDH Transgender Health Services and Support
  Virginia Department of Health’s resource hub for transgender health, including information on transition-related care and local services.

Crisis Support – You're Not Alone

• The Trevor Project
  24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ youth.

• Trans Lifeline
  Peer support run by and for trans people, offering emotional support and resource navigation.

• Crisis Text Line
  Free, 24/7 text support from trained crisis counselors
  

Pride is a reminder: you are seen, you are loved, and you are never alone. Whether you're seeking community, healthcare, or simply someone to talk to, these resources are here for you—not just in June, but all year round.