I’ve been in relationships with both men and women, and for much of my life, I didn’t know how to talk about that. People often wanted me to “pick a side,” but my truth didn’t fit neatly into the categories others expected. I was married to a woman, and when that relationship ended, I grieved more than just the person. I grieved the version of myself I thought I had to be in order to feel accepted. It took time, therapy, and surrounding myself with supportive people to begin feeling whole again. I’ve struggled with mental health and substance use along the way, both of which were tied to the shame and confusion I felt around identity. But those experiences also gave me the tools to listen deeply and support others without judgment. If you’re wrestling with labels, afraid of how others might react, or just feeling alone in the messiness of figuring out who you are, I’m here for that.