(2021). From the Editor. Journal of LGBTQ Issues in Counseling: Vol. 15, No. 1, pp. 1-1.

Abstract Submission patterns of articles accepted for publication in the Journal for LGBTQ Issues in Counseling from 2006 to 2019 are reviewed. Trends are analyzed in author characteristics (e.g., nation of domicile, employment setting, contributing authors and institutions) and article content (e.g., topic, methods, participants, statistical procedures).

Abstract Eleven individuals who identified as transgender people of color (TPOC) were interviewed about their retrospective school-age experiences and how they learned to cope during youth and adolescence. Consensual qualitative research methodology was used to code and analyze data. Four key themes were identified including a model of TPOC identity development. Implications for the practice of school

Abstract This qualitative study explored the facilitators and barriers influencing professional mental health help-seeking among Malaysian LGBT young adults (n = 28). The main barriers identified were internal resistance, lack of resources and information about mental health, limited availability and accessibility to services, negative perception of mental health services, and stigma against LGBT communities

Abstract Sexual diverse women of color (SDWOC) face significant heightened experiences of discrimination across multiple axes of identity. We sampled 182 SDWOC of Latinx and African American descent to examine factors associated with participants’ self-stigma to seek psychological help. Results indicated that intersectional discrimination across race and sexual orientation was positively associated

Abstract The current study investigated experiences of mental health services with members of the LGBTQ+ community who have experienced trauma. Using survey questions participants identified multiple barriers to accessing and receiving intervention for psychological trauma (e.g., lack of inclusive language in forms/publications, previous anti LGBTQ+ comments made by service providers). Participants

Abstract Despite the population of transgender individuals in the United States doubling from 2011 to 2016, this population is one of the most understudied in counseling and related disciplines. Of the available research, the associations between gender congruence, defined as an individual’s body matching their gender identity, and well-being have been examined, particularly demonstrating positive

Abstract Loneliness and isolation are major concerns for LGBTQ + clients who experience marginalization, discrimination and alienation in society and social networks. These experiences of increased loneliness and isolation can lead to other detrimental mental health outcomes, such as substance abuse, HIV, and suicide. Loneliness and isolation are central concerns of existential therapy which makes

Abstract The Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (7th edition) contains significant new information about bias-free language to which scholars must now adhere. Consequently, these changes provide unprecedented support for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) community as the bias-free language is adopted. This article identifies resources that counseling

(2021). Continuing Education Credits and Questions. Journal of LGBTQ Issues in Counseling: Vol. 15, No. 1, pp. 140-144.

Abstract Narrative qualitative research design was used to explore the journey of self-acceptance of three transgender individuals throughout the transition process. The primary research questions of this study were the following: (1) How do transgender individuals experience and express their narrative of self-acceptance? (2) How does their level of acceptance in the family and society impact their

Abstract Affirmative therapy is a strength-based and non-pathological treatment approach that allows counselors to help lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans/transgender/two-spirit, gender expressive, queer/questioning, intersex, agender/asexual/aromantic, pansexual/pan/polygender, and other related identities (LGBTGEQIAP+) adolescents meet important developmental milestones and achieve a positive self-identity

Abstract Counseling lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ) individuals with substance use disorders while considering oppression is dynamic and complex. The Socio-Multidimensional Sexual and Gender Minority Oppression (SSGMO) framework guides counselors to attend to both oppression and substance use in LGBTQ individuals. It consists of four dimensions that help examine clients’ intrapersonal

Abstract Transgender clients are disproportionately underrepresented in counseling, despite clinical needs therein. To better understand this problem, we investigated client recruitment within professional counseling literature. Using content analysis to identify codes and themes, we found that, out of 111 recruitment articles, one article highlighted sexual minorities and one included transgender

Abstract Black transgender men are exposed to systems of oppression such as racism and cissexism at unique intersections of marginalized racial and gender identities, yet their experiences within such systems are not well understood. In this qualitative study, 10 Black transgender men were interviewed and six major themes were identified: developing an empowered view of self, navigating double consciousness

Abstract This phenomenological study explored the academic and career experiences of 10 intersex people. Researchers conducted the study to share knowledge with counselors and other helping professionals about the importance of validating intersex personhood during the school-age years and in work settings. Five findings were uncovered: (a) coping as intersex, (b) range of feelings, (c) gender identity

Abstract Counselors working with LGBTQ youth in international contexts risk re-creating oppressive social dynamics that marginalize indigenous ways of knowing and helping. In this critical literature review, recommendations for international collaboration in support of LGBTQ youth are presented based on multicultural-social justice principles, post-colonial theory, and scholarship on the needs of LGBTQ

Abstract We describe the development and validation of the LGBTQ Belongingness Attainment Scale (LGBTQ BAS) including item selection and confirmatory factor analysis. The LGBTQ BAS measures a subjective, multidimensional conceptualization of belongingness in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer and/or questioning (LGBTQ) individuals. Findings indicate test scores of the LGBTQ BAS are highly

Abstract Much of the queer male couples’ research and training remains grounded in heteronormative, deficit-focused, individualistic, and non-ecological approaches. Counselor educators, utilizing ecologically and culturally-informed practices, are put in unique positions to mediate these theoretical limitations early within counseling training. The authors utilize an ecological and relational third

Abstract Queer youth, and specifically queer youth of color (YOC), identified in this study as Hispanic/Latinx and African American/Black youth, disproportionately experience suicidal ideations (SI). The nexus of limited social support and school bullying exacerbates the effect on SI among these youth. Using data from a larger Drug-Free Communities grant initiative among YOC (N = 687; 65.6% youth aged

Abstract LGBTQ+ students experience discrimination within schools and increased rates of academic and mental health concerns when compared to heterosexual and cisgender peers. The researchers delivered an LGBTQ+ training to teacher education and school administration students before participants entered field placement in K-12 schools. Participants learned about LGBTQ+ student needs, their own biases

Abstract This study aimed to gain an in-depth understanding of the lived experiences of adults with gender dysphoria seeking treatment in the UK. Two transgender males and six transgender females participated. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Analysis of the transcripts revealed three superordinate themes: “Accessing Healthcare

Abstract Transgender individuals are disproportionately impacted by negative mental and physical health outcomes, including increased suicide risk. The gender minority stress theory proposes a potential pathway to suicide risk through distal and proximal stressors. However, little research has examined how resiliency impacts this relationship. The present study explored the moderating role of resiliency

Abstract The present study utilized confirmatory factor analysis to determine the appropriateness of fit of the Conformity to Feminine Norms Inventory – 45 (CFNI-45) with sexual minority women. Group differences between 227 LGB, cisgender women, 30 trans women, and 22 gender nonconforming individuals were also explored. Results indicated that the CFNI-45 is appropriate to use with sexual minority women

Abstract Although mental health disparities for transgender individuals are well documented, a number of obstacles exist for receiving affirming therapy. To provide an understanding of transgender peoples’ help-seeking experiences, the present study aimed to investigate their positive experiences of identity microaffirmations within a therapeutic relationship. Sixty-four transgender participants answered

Abstract In 2003, Frame reported that over 60% of LGBTQ+ individuals value their spiritual/religious backgrounds. While some religious organizations and states’ conscience clause legislation discriminates against LGBTQ+ individuals, the ACA Code of Ethics and Association for Spiritual, Ethical, and Religious Values in Counseling, and Association for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Issues in

Abstract Internalized stigma has a direct and detrimental effect on the mental health of sexual and gender minorities (SGMs), yet few interventions have been specifically designed to reduce such internalized stigma. This article describes numerous social psychology concepts and theories integrated into a brief, online intervention that has demonstrated success in reducing internalized stigma among

Abstract Common losses, such as the death of a loved one, losses related to aging, or the breakup of a relationship, often possess unique features for LGBTQ + people. Disenfranchised grief may result from fewer supports and increased feelings of vulnerability. Additionally, some losses are unique to LGBTQ+ people, such as those associated with coming out. Meaning reconstruction is a current model for

Abstract Despite incessant discrimination that often leads to increased health disparities, trans* individuals are often hesitant to seek out mental health services due to fear of discrimination by professionals who lack essential training and knowledge. Authors interviewed 12 cisgender professional counselors about their experiences working with trans* clients. Participants’ responses were grouped

Abstract LGB+ (i.e., sexual orientations other than heterosexual) individuals are more likely than heterosexual individuals to experience interpersonal trauma (IPT) and minority stress related to their sexual orientation. IPT and minority stress may lead to symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and a need to seek help. The present study examined the relationship between experiences of minority

Abstract This phenomenological inquiry investigated the experiences of 13 transgender individuals living in Houston, Texas, when an ordinance providing protections for transgender persons was passed and later repealed. The six themes garnered from the data were (a) from feeling ecstatic to devastated to fearful; (b) being dehumanized, labeled, and violated; (c) being abandoned and singled out for discrimination;

Abstract The authors critically analyzed D’Augelli’s model of LGB identity development, a common identity development model used in counselor and higher education as well as multicultural training, using a postmodern lens. An anecdotal review will be supported by empirical evidence to identify controversies encompassing D’Augelli’s theory. Additionally, this evaluation offers an interpretation of studies

Abstract This study presents a qualitative exploration of nonbinary gender identities from a counseling framework. We studied 14 participants in an open-ended, online format, all of whom self-identified with nonbinary gender identities. Our analysis explored five primary themes: (a) identity development, (b) heterogenous identities, (c) the identity-expression divide, (d) invisibility and stressors

Abstract Narrative qualitative research design was used to understand the processes of three lesbians with Oneness Pentecostal backgrounds who reconciled their religious beliefs with their affectional orientation. The central question for this study was “How do lesbians with Oneness Pentecostal backgrounds describe their coming out processes, and how did they reconcile their religious beliefs and sexual

Thank you for reading issue 13(2) of the Journal of LGBT Issues in Counseling. Included in this issue are three empirical articles and one theoretical piece. The first article, a narrative qualitative study, explored how religious beliefs and affectional orientations are reconciled among a small group of lesbians. The second article, also a qualitative study, investigated nonbinary identities and counseling

Abstract Sexual minority men’s sexual identity may be vulnerable to feelings of masculine gender-role incongruence within heteronormative dominant cultural contexts. This study explored associations between masculine gender-role congruence/incongruence and various aspects of sexual identity development in a sample of 106 nonheterosexual men between ages 18 and 74 years (M = 34.86, SD = 14.32). The

Abstract The amount of various, state-level legislation allowing the denial of counseling services to individuals with values that conflict with those of the professional counselor continues to increase. Such laws are in direct conflict with the values, principles, and ethical standards of the counseling profession. These “conscience clause” legislations are of concern due to the ability of the counseling

Abstract More than 100 pieces of anti-lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) legislation are active in 2018. In this current political climate of “conscience clause” legislation, counselor educators and supervisors are poised to adopt more holistic practices in assessing and evaluating student and supervisee readiness to work with LGBT queer (Q) clients. The purpose of this article is to present

AbstractResearch has shown that friendship between queer college women of color was beneficial to racial and sexual identity development. To date, no study has sought to discover the ways in which ...

Abstract Microaffirmations are small, interpersonal interactions that communicate validation for an identity. The present study focuses on transgender microaffirmations received from romantic partners. Participants included 339 self-identified transgender adults in a romantic relationship (currently or within the past 5 years). Participants were recruited via social media and snowball sampling and

abstract Counselors are increasingly expected to operate within an integrated behavioral health framework across systems of care. This critical literature review provides an overview of the integrated behavioral health paradigm, including the practice of interprofessional collaboration, with specific application to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ), and other gender and sexual minority

Abstract The broad spectrum of health services and wellness surrounding lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) communities operates within multiple layers of social inequities. Research using intersectionality features numerous research methods purposed specifically for clarity toward increasing health equity. Generated in the scope of various research methods (e.g., quantitative,

abstract Unsafe and ill-prepared school environments exist for many lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) students in foster care. School counselors are uniquely positioned to develop safe and inclusive schools for this vulnerable student population; however, strategies for interdisciplinary collaboration and advocacy with schools, families, and systems incorporated with LGBTQ youth

Abstract The healthcare landscape is changing with the development of integrated health care models across the country. Counseling is uniquely positioned to add to the continuum of services of integrated health by providing counseling and case management services through advocacy for clients. One particular chronic illness that remains highly stigmatized is HIV, which is slowly becoming more integrated

Abstract Higher levels of loneliness in men who have sex with men (MSM) are associated with negative outcomes such as depression, anxiety, and sexual impulsivity. By identifying what may reduce loneliness in MSM, counselors and public health professionals can alleviate the distress of their clients. A significant hierarchical multiple regression controlling for relationship status, F(9, 105) = 16.36

Abstract Asian American sexual minorities navigate dual-identity development involving race and sexuality while at risk of marginalization from racial/ethnic communities that are important sources of support. The authors investigated the indirect effect of discomfort in racial/ethnic community on self-reported health through low positive affect in Asian American sexual minority adults and differences

Abstract Three-hundred-and-ninety-eight school counselors were surveyed with regard to school counselor advocacy for lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) students. Demographic variables were assessed, along with school counselors’ levels of LGB advocacy intention (i.e., advance plans to advocate for LGB students). School counselor LGB advocacy is significantly related to school counselors’ age, level of

Abstract People who are transgender are vulnerable to reported isolation and mental health concerns. Limited access to mental health counselors has an increased negative impact on persons who are transgender. The digital age has advanced electronic communication and interaction increasing connection of marginalized populations to each other and may benefit geographically isolated persons with limited

Abstract Despite prior research on alcohol use within lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) communities, little attention has been paid to the unique experiences of lesbians who have struggled with chronic alcohol use. This study used in-depth, semistructured interviews and an interpretive phenomenological framework to explore the perceptions of past alcohol use of six currently sober lesbians between the

ABSTRACT Research demonstrates counselor educators often lack skills and knowledge to train counselors to become lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and other sexualities and gender identities (LGBTQ+) competent. This study explores the process of educators integrating LGBTQ+ competencies into their professional work. Using grounded theory and situational analysis methodologies, in-depth interviews

ABSTRACT In the United States, the transgender and gender nonconforming (TGNC) population has increased twofold since 2011. Although counseling professionals are called to provide competent services to TGNC clients, no empirical studies exist that examine one of the first points of contact: Intake paperwork. The authors conducted a content analysis (N = 128) of intake paperwork and assessed how and

In this second issue of volume 12 of the Journal of LGBT Issues in Counseling, four pertinent empirical studies are included and briefly introduced here. The first manuscript is a quantitative study that explored the relationship among self-acceptance and parental satisfaction and efficacy in a sample of lesbian and gay parents. Based on this study’s findings, the authors suggested that parenting classes

ABSTRACT Although previous research has identified common types of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) microaggressions, there is a lack of research that describes the specific experiences of LGBT students in counselor education programs. This study examined the microaggression experiences of 12 LGBT students in such programs. Data analysis revealed several thematic microaggression types. Implications

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to explore the hypothesis that lower levels of self-acceptance in lesbian and gay parents would account for a significant amount of variability in parental satisfaction and parental efficacy over and above that accounted for by demographics and impression management. A hierarchal regression (N = 324) indicated that negative identity was negatively correlated with

ABSTRACT The school environment is often perceived as hostile by sexual minority youth. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) students experience high rates of bullying and suicidal ideation yet are often underserved by school counselors. School counselors are uniquely situated to facilitate systemic change within a school. The proposed School Counselors: Educate, Affirm, Respond, and

ABSTRACT To better understand psychological experiences of drag queens, the authors conducted interviews with 12 cisgender, gay male drag queens from a midsouth state. Participants were age 22 to 54 years (M = 34) and reported participating in drag for 2 to 33 years (M = 13). The authors used consensual qualitative analysis to identify five main themes: motivation, effects, protective factors, stressors

ABSTRACT This article provides a review of the literature addressing the unique needs and experiences of queer fathers. Despite the growing number of queer fathers and families, and increasing scholarship on this topic, there is a major dearth in the counseling scholarship and practice related to queer families, or more specifically and especially, queer fatherhood. Thus, this article uses the concept

ABSTRACT The purpose of this quantitative study was to examine the relationship among internal factors (mental health concerns) that affect relationship satisfaction and contextual factors (social support) that affect relationship satisfaction in female same-sex couples (N = 99). Correlation and regression analyses indicated significant relationships among the variables. Specifically, mental health

ABSTRACT Given that many professional organizations emphasize the need for comparing assessment results to appropriate reference groups in their codes of ethics, we consider this practice through an ecological perspective as it applies to the lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) population. The purpose of norming and types of assessment bias is discussed with respect to LGB population, which frequently

ABSTRACT The following standards of care have been developed to support the continued development of research with individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, plus individuals whose orientations differ from those who identify as heterosexual and cisgender (LGBTQ+). The guidelines presented are conceived as a working document that reflect the current state and body of knowledge