Brazil opens specialized LGBTQIA+ mental health clinic to address care gaps

A study by Unesp and USP published in Nature Scientific Reports found that 12% of Brazilian adults—about 19 million people—identify as LGBTQIA+. The growing community faces barriers in accessing mental‑health services that understand their specific needs.

In response, the new clinic Consulta LGBT was launched, led by psychologist Lucas de Vito. It provides affirmative therapy focusing on self‑esteem, relationships, anxiety, homophobia and identity issues. The clinic brings together multidisciplinary professionals and trains staff to create a safe environment where patients do not have to justify their identity before treatment, aiming to reduce historic discrimination and improve outcomes for Brazil's LGBTQIA+ population.