Special Considerations When Working With LGBTQIA Clients

Members of the LGBTQIA community experience unique challenges and for many, discrimination and bias are a part of daily life. They may need to create "chosen" families as support systems apart from their families of origin; face legal obstacles to adopting children; experience discrimination when accessing health care; struggle with issues related to gender identity and sexual orientation; experience workplace discrimination; and do not have the same experience of safety that is felt by others.

These circumstances and others can negatively impact the health and well-being of LGBTQIA individuals and couples. In order to help them as clients, counselors need to develop cultural sensitivity, set aside biases, gain a better understanding of their experiences, and provide a safe space for growth and healing.