LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapy Policy

Introduction

Our therapeutic practice is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all individuals, irrespective of their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. This LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapy Policy outlines the principles and standards guiding our interactions with LGBTQ+ clients.

Affirmation and Respect

  1. Affirmation: Therapists must provide a supportive, affirmative, and validating environment for all LGBTQ+ individuals, acknowledging and respecting their identities, relationships, and experiences.
  2. Non-discrimination: Therapists are committed to treating all clients with dignity and respect, irrespective of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Discrimination, bias, and prejudice will not be tolerated.

Competence and Training

  1. Competence: Therapists are expected to have, or actively seek, a robust understanding of the specific mental health issues, societal pressures, and experiences of discrimination that LGBTQ+ individuals may face.
  2. Training: Therapists are encouraged to pursue ongoing education and training on LGBTQ+ issues, best practices, and emerging research to ensure the most effective and compassionate care.

Cultural Sensitivity

  1. Cultural Humility: Therapists should approach each client’s experience with humility and openness, understanding that each individual’s experience of their sexuality or gender is unique and cannot be generalized.
  2. Language: Therapists must use inclusive and affirming language, including using each client’s affirmed name and pronouns.

Confidentiality and Advocacy

  1. Confidentiality: Therapists will respect the privacy of LGBTQ+ clients, including any discussions about sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
  2. Advocacy: Therapists will advocate for the rights and needs of LGBTQ+ individuals in the therapeutic setting and wider community.

Client Autonomy

  1. Self-Determination: Therapists respect and support the autonomy of LGBTQ+ clients, including their right to make decisions about their identity, disclosure, transition-related care, relationships, and other aspects of their life and wellbeing.
  2. Avoiding Harm: Therapists reject any therapy aiming to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity, such as conversion therapy, which is unethical and harmful.

Compliance with this LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapy Policy is mandatory for all therapists. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action. As therapists, our goal is to provide the best care to all of our clients, which includes understanding, affirming, and respecting the identities and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals.