Rediscovering You: Exploring Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation for Established Adults

Rediscovering You:

Exploring Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity as an Established Adult

Written by Christa McCrorie, LICSW-S

Acknowledgements

Thank you to my husband, Carl, who helps me live my dreams and loves me unconditionally.

Thank you to my clients-your resilience inspires me every day.

Thank you to my good friend Jermaine Wall for encouraging me to try things I never dared.

Thank you to Dr. Elizabeth Guthrie, who let me lean on their publishing experience.

Thank you to collaborators on this project, including G. Mansheim, David Roby, Anna Warner, Brantley Ingram, Dr. Andrew Duxbury, and members of ALSAIGE.

Table of Contents

i. Introduction

ii. Purpose of This Workbook 

iii. Ground Rules for Reflection and Exploration 

ix. How to Use This Workbook 

x. Affirmation and Support Resources 

Section 1: Understanding Gender Identity

​The Nature of Gender Identity

​Challenges and Barriers

​The Importance of Community and Support

Embracing Fluidity and Change

The Spectrum of LGBTQ+ Identities

Theories of Identity Development

The Path Ahead-Journal Prompt

Cultural Context and LGBTQ+ Identities

Indigenous and Non-Western Cultures

LGBTQ+ Identities in Global Contexts

Intersectionality and Cultural Nuances

The Path Ahead-Journal Prompt

​Conclusion

​Interactive Challenges

Identity Mapping

Letter to Your Future Self

Role Playing Scenarios

Creative Expression

Find Your Community Identity Exploration Journal

Affirmation Challenge

​Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques

​Understanding Mindfulness

​Benefits of Mindfulness in Identity Exploration

​Grounding Techniques for Stability

5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Exercise

Breath Awareness

Body Scan

Nature Connection

Mindful Journaling

​Incorporating Mindfulness into Daily Life

​The Path Ahead

​Artistic Expression Prompts

Self-Portrait

Identity Collage

Storytelling Through Art

Affirmation Art

Gender Spectrum Exploration

Sound and Movement

Poetry or Prose

The Future Self

​Conclusion

​Interview and Dialogue Exercises

Personal Interview

Interviewing Others

Dialogue with an Imaginary Character

Group Discussion

Role Playing Scenarios

​Conclusion

​Goal-Setting for Identity Exploration

​Importance of Goal-Setting

​Types of Goals for Identity Exploration

​Strategies for Setting Effective Goals

​Goal-Setting Worksheet

​Conclusion

​Resource Compilation for Specific Identities

​Conclusion-Journal Prompt

​Real Life Stories and Testimonials

​Conclusion- Journal Prompt

​Future Visioning Exercises

Vision Board Creation

Guided Visualization

Letter to Your Future Self

Creating Your Personal Mission Statement

Future Identity Mapping

​Reflection on Future Visioning Exercises

Conclusion

Section 2: Understanding Sexual Orientation

​Defining Sexual Orientation

Mind Map

Exploring Attraction

Identifying Your Sexual Orientation

Theories of Sexual Orientation Development

Conclusion

Section 3: Intersectionality and Identity

​Exploring Intersectionality

Venn Diagram

Cultural Influences

Research and Reflect

Conclusion

Section 4: Personal Reflection and Growth

​Self-Compassion and Acceptance

Write a letter to past self

Setting Goals For Personal Growth

Create a list of goals

Celebrating Your Identity

Create a Vision Board

Conclusion

Conclusion of the Workbook

Additional Resources

Introduction

Exploring gender identity and sexual orientation can be a profoundly rewarding journey, yet it often comes with unique challenges, particularly for established adults. Many individuals in this demographic may have spent years conforming to societal expectations or adhering to traditional norms, leaving little room for self-exploration. As we grow older, we may feel pressure to fit into predefined roles or to maintain the status quo, making it harder to question our identities and desires.

For many, the fear of judgment, rejection, or misunderstanding can create significant barriers to authentic self-expression. Life experiences, familial expectations, and societal norms can lead to internalized beliefs that discourage open exploration of one’s true self. As established adults, we may grapple with feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, or guilt when considering the possibility of redefining our identities, leaving many feeling isolated in their journey.

I am Christa McCrorie, LICSW-S, a therapist who specializes in queer needs in my own therapy private practice, Creative Therapeutic Solutions, LLC, based in Birmingham, Alabama. I understand these complexities and am dedicated to making the exploration of gender identity and sexual orientation accessible to everyone. My goal is to provide a supportive and affirming space where individuals can freely engage in self-reflection and discover their authentic selves. This workbook is designed to facilitate that process, offering structured activities and journaling prompts that encourage you to delve into your thoughts and feelings.

In this workbook, you will find a variety of tools to help you navigate your identity in a way that feels safe and empowering. Whether you are just beginning your journey of exploration or seeking to deepen your understanding, this resource is here to guide you. Remember, it is never too late to embark on a journey of self-discovery, and you deserve the space and support to explore your unique identity fully. Together, let’s embrace this journey with curiosity and compassion, celebrating the beauty of being true to ourselves.

If you are looking to learn more or need individualized support, please reach out to me at:

Creative Therapeutic Solutions, LLC

PO Box 360763, Hoover, AL 35236

Phone: (205) 578-2692

[email protected]

https://creativetherapeutic.solutions/

Purpose of the Workbook

The purpose of this workbook is to provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore their gender identity and sexual orientation. Through a series of reflective activities, journaling prompts, and creative exercises, this workbook aims to:

1. Facilitate Self-Discovery: Encourage individuals to delve into their thoughts, feelings, and experiences related to their gender identity and sexual orientation, fostering a deeper understanding of themselves.

2. Promote Affirmation and Acceptance: Help individuals recognize and affirm their unique identities, empowering them to embrace their authentic selves without fear of judgment or societal expectations.

3. Encourage Reflection: Provide structured opportunities for reflection, allowing individuals to process their experiences, challenges, and growth in a meaningful way.

4. Foster Community and Connection: Highlight the importance of community and support, encouraging individuals to seek connection with others who share similar experiences and journeys.

5. Provide Resources for Ongoing Exploration: Offer additional resources, affirmations, and support options to guide individuals as they continue to navigate their identities beyond the workbook.

6. Empower Personal