For more than ten years, I’ve had the privilege of caring for patients with diverse healthcare needs, including many in the LGBTQ+ community. Over time, one truth has become undeniable: trust is not optional in medicine — it is the foundation of every therapeutic relationship. I’ve cared for people through gender journeys, chronic conditions, trauma, menopause, and major life transitions. Some patients have moved across Idaho or across the country and still choose to remain

The holiday season is often painted as a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration. Yet for many, it can also be a season of deep grief. Whether it’s the first holiday after losing a loved one or the tenth, the absence can feel sharper against the backdrop of festive lights and cheerful gatherings. Grief during the holidays can feel especially heavy, as memories and traditions highlight the absence of loved ones.