Gay And Lesbian Counseling

This blog is a stew of ingredients gathered from various internet sources, seasoned with many client reports as well as my own reactions to family members who have opened a closet door announcing, "Guess Who's Coming To Dinner." I recall the day that my child told me about a decision to "explore my sexuality." I remember denying such a possibility because I was, after all, a therapist...and what would people say? I went in search of another clinician to repair my child. I refused to believe what I was hearing and couldn't imagine how little I knew nor how much I would learn over the coming years. My child became one of my most significant teachers so that I could begin to educate others about life's realities.

Gay and lesbian individuals have asked me if they need "a different kind of therapist" for dealing with their interests. I tell folks that LGBT people deal with the same kind of depression, anxiety and mood problems that bother heterosexuals. I let them know that they may want to see a counselor who is sensitive to sexual identity issues if that would bring them more comfort. That choice is always available. These therapists are often referred to as "LGBT Affirming."

It is my opinion that the sexual orientation of a therapist is not nearly as important as the counselor's sensitivity, understanding and experience in working with people who have felt stress due to social stigma - real or assumed.

This is a relatively recent issue because, until the 1970's homosexuality was actually considered a "mental illness" and there were therapists who used cruel techniques to "fix" gay people with abusive approaches to giving guidance.

Finally, in the year 2000, most professionals began to agree that same-sex attraction was not a mental illness. Sadly, in some areas, I find that stigma and discrimination remain undercover - or blatantly plain to see - and can have unfortunate affects on lesbian, gay and bisexual people who face harassment when they live in conservative areas. This can cause isolation, stress, anxiety, depression - and even suicide. I have watched clients, friends and relatives "come out" and face being expelled from traditionalist groups and peers.

We seldom teach young adults how to be open about sexual identification and still flourish socially. This is where supportive therapists can play a very important role. When some of my own clients don't feel like they have to justify their sexual choices, it means a lot to them. It also means a lot to a therapist who doesn't necessarily have to identify as LGBT or "straight.". For many clients, gay, lesbian or transgender life styles have little to do with why they are seeking treatment. If clients are interested, however, they should ask about a therapist's background and they should ask if a therapist has experience in working with clients of varied sexual orientations. A good therapist will be open about these things.

I wrote this blog after reading information from Intra-Spectum, an LGBT counseling center in Chicago.

If you have comments or questions about this post, please feel free to call me at 256/431-5060. You can also send me email at [email protected] There is never a fee for this type of participation.

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