Ask the Expert: Coming Out and Mental Health: The Emotional Journey

This was recorded on June 25th, from 6 - 7 PM Join us for a meaningful Pride Month conversation titled “Coming Out and Mental Health: The Emotional Journey.” We’re joined by Melissa Cruz, LMHC, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor practicing in South Florida at Buxani Counseling Care, who will help guide this important conversation. This presentation explores the emotional and mental health journey of coming out, helping us better understand identity, sexuality, and gender as deeply personal and ongoing experiences. It also highlights the challenges many LGBTQ+ individuals may face, including shame, rejection, family dynamics, cultural stigma, and minority stress. Alongside these realities, we’ll also focus on hope and healing, including practical tools for coping, building safety, finding support, and creating affirming environments where individuals feel seen, accepted, and empowered. This event is free and open to all, especially welcoming to anyone looking to better understand, support, or engage in conversations around mental health and identity. For more information, please visit https://namimiami.org/