Outline three out of the five guidelines for psychotherapy with gay, lesbian, and bisexual clients set by the American Psychological Association.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

(1) It is important for psychologists to understand that having homosexual or bisexual orientation does not automatically mean that the person is psychologically disturbed. (2) Psychologists need to probe their own attitudes about sexual orientation issues as well as their knowledge about those issues. If they discover limitations in their expertise or attitudes that might have a negative impact on the client, they should refer the client to another therapist. (3) Lesbians, gays, and bisexuals are stigmatized in dozens of ways, ranging from subtle prejudice to outright violence, and psychologists must gain a deep understanding of the impact this may have on the mental health of their client. They should also understand that these experiences may affect the client’s behavior in therapy. (4) Psychologists should be knowledgeable about relationship issues for sexual minority persons. This includes respecting lesbians’, gays’, and bisexuals’ romantic relationships and understanding how disclosure of sexual orientation may have an impact on the client’s relationship with their family of origin--and how nondisclosure places a psychological burden on the client. (5) Lesbian, gay, and bisexual persons who are members of ethnic minority groups may face particular challenges because of cultural norms against homosexuality within their group, and psychologists must be sensitive to these issues.