“The last thing I wanted to do was talk about the fact I was attracted to men. I didn’t know how to even put it in words. Was I gay? Was I confused? Why didn’t God just fix me? I wanted it to all just go away; I didn’t want to deal with the discrimination I had seen that being gay entails, let alone the social and cultural implications. I definitely was scared and even the thought of talking about it with anyone, I would push away. Considering telling my parents was terrifying. My internal confusion and withdrawal led to addictive behaviors that would give me moments of feeling numb from it all. That only made things worse. I moved away and my addiction got worse and when the thoughts of killing myself became more and more real, I knew I needed help. I came out to a few people but that led to mixed emotions and confusion from everyone’s opinions. I agreed to see a therapist and was led to Utah Family Therapy. My therapist helped me process the addiction I used to cope and never judged me. This was the first time I felt truly comfortable talking about being gay; that this part of me wasn’t broken or needed to be fixed. That I could define my life and not have society, discrimination, or judgments define me. I wasn’t forced to change (my biggest fear of therapy), or choose, and knew I could confidentially discuss literally everything. I got sober from my addictions and developed self-confidence as a homosexual man. I was able to talk about being gay with my parents and they joined me in various therapy sessions. Being able to lead a successful, honest, and happy life has become a reality. I can’t put into words how strongly I encourage seeking Utah Family Therapy as a resource.”