Its very difficult to know someone you love is in great pain and there is little you can do for them. Regardless of the fact that your gf tells you that she wants you to stay away because she isn't worthy or has nothing to give the relationship, this is the time she needs you the most. She is probably praying that you don't take her advice.

Is there any way of getting her to move out of her house? It sounds like her father is causing more damage acting the way he is. I'm really not familiar with the health care and disability issues in Toronto, but if she is eligible for help, perhaps that would help her get out. Sharing an apartment with her may be an option depending on how you feel about that. There is no reason why her father needs to know that she is gay if you did co-habitate. Its not that uncommon for people to have room mates to share expenses.

Rohag had a good point about being sensitive to cultural and family issues. A good therapist should be aware of that. The fact that she is so young is in her favor. She hasn't been building up emotional baggage for years and years. I don't know how far away she is from you, but perhaps you could go with her to her first therapy session, either part of the session, (depending on her needs and the therapist's rule), or as moral support to drive in with her and wait in the waiting room while she is in her session.

You obviously love her and your concerns are not unfounded based on what you have told us. She is lucky to have someone who is willing to stand by her. Try not to take her pulling away personally. Depression can make people isolate themselves and turn inward. Be her anchor and see if you can get her to go to a therapist.

If there is a mental health office in the area, you or she may want to make some calls and see what is available as far as therpists. Sometimes a therapist may lower her rates to accomidate patients who don't have much money. It sounds like she can't do this on her own and really needs a therapist. Its too bad her father took her dog from her. Animals can be a great source of comfort as well as being a companion. They are good at getting you moving, and a dog could keep her walking outside.

Whatever the outcome, you are truly a friend, not just a gf, but someone who will love her regardless of how she is feeling. Don't give up on her.

Sam2