100996: Guidelines for Psychotherapy with Lesbian, Gay, & Bisexual Clients

About the Course:

In 1975, the American Psychological Association (APA) adopted a resolution stating that “Homosexuality per se implies no impairment in judgment, stability, reliability, or general social or vocational capabilities” following a rigorous discussion of the 1973 decision of the American Psychiatric Association to remove homosexuality from its list of mental disorders. Over 25 years later the implications of this resolution have yet to be fully implemented in practice. Many authors suggest that there is a need for better education and training of mental health practitioners in this area. This document is intended to assist psychologists and other mental health providers in seeking and utilizing appropriate education and training in their treatment of lesbian, gay, and bisexual clients.

Journal/Publisher:

American Psychological Association

Publication Date:

(c) 2006

Author

American Psychological Association

About the Author:

Based in Washington, DC, the American Psychological Association (APA) is a scientific and professional organization that represents psychology in the United States. With 150,000 members, APA is the largest association of psychologists worldwide.

Recommended For:

This course is recommended for health care professionals, especially addiction counselors, psychologists, mental health counselors, social workers, and nurses who seek knowledge about ethical issues involved in the provision of psychotherapy services to lesbian, gay and bisexual clients. It is appropriate for all levels of participants’ knowledge.

Course Objectives:

1. Understand that homosexuality and bisexuality are not indicative of mental illness.

2. Explain how a therapist’s attitudes and knowledge about lesbian, gay, and bisexual issues may be relevant to assessment and treatment and seek consultation or make appropriate referrals when indicated.

3. Explain the ways in which social stigmatization (i.e., prejudice, discrimination, and violence) poses risks to the mental health and well-being of lesbian, gay, and bisexual clients.

4. Explain how inaccurate or prejudicial views of homosexuality or bisexuality may affect the client’s presentation in treatment and the therapeutic process.

5. Explain the particular circumstances and challenges facing lesbian, gay, and bisexual parents.

6. Understand that the families of lesbian, gay, and bisexual people may include people who are not legally or biologically related.

7. Explain the impact a person’s homosexual or bisexual orientation may have on his or her family of origin and his or her relationship to that family of origin.

8. Recognize the particular life issues or challenges experienced by lesbian, gay, and bisexual members of racial and ethnic minorities that are related to multiple and often conflicting cultural norms, values, and beliefs.

9. Recognize the particular challenges experienced by bisexual individuals.

10. Understand the special problems and risks that exist for lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth.

11. Consider generational differences within lesbian, gay, and bisexual populations, and the particular challenges that may be experienced by lesbian, gay, and bisexual older adults.

12. Recognize the particular challenges experienced by lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals with physical, sensory, and/or cognitive/emotional disabilities.

13. Underestand the importance of professional education and training on lesbian, gay, and bisexual issues.