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William Temple House removes barriers of care for LGBTQ+ communities

The William Temple House is helping LGBTQ+ Portlanders with social services, such as a food pantry, and mental health services.

PORTLAND, Ore. — For years, Reid Vanderburgh faced anxiety and depression. And he didn't know why. 

"When I started transition, I realized who I was finally in 1995 — I was 40 years old," said Vanderburgh. "I had been in deep denial for a long time, living in a lesbian community, and I was very confused about who I was."

He said one therapist didn't understand what he was going through and actually hurt his recovery. 

"That set me back in my process of self-exploration because if a therapist doesn't believe me and I already don't know who I am and they're supposed to know because they're the professional, then that can't be it," said Vanderburgh. 

Reid said he finally found a therapist that understood trans issues and gave him the tools to figure out who he was. That's one reason he's now a board member and does trainings for William Temple House in Northwest Portland. 

William Temple House helps remove barriers of care for LGBTQ+ Portlanders by offering different services. 

In 2023, the William Temple House served 5,387 clients. Most of them got food assistance. Hundreds of them got connected to resources like SNAP and mental health treatment. 

"In Oregon, in Portland, what we see is that our mental health services are very much in demand ... so in other words, we have this disproportionate ratio of mental health services than providers," said Dr. Vicente Murgado, director of counseling services. 

For counseling services, clients pay what they can afford. 

"Our entire culture in the counseling center is really stepping into a more diverse and a more inclusive counseling service," said Dr. Murgado. 

The nonprofit also provides social services, such as a food pantry. People can get the groceries they need without worrying about how they'll be treated. 

"We create an atmosphere that's welcoming and affirming, so we do not tolerate any type of harassment or discrimination of any kind," said Kevin Ryan, director of social services. 

It's one reason why LGBTQ+ people who visit William Temple and others appreciate the nonprofit and how it gives back. 

"We believe strongly that everyone that comes through the doors should be affirmed no matter what they look like, no matter what identities they present," said Ryan.

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