All individuals possess multiple intersecting identities, both contextually determined and at various stages of development. Contradictory or incompatible societal expectations attached to differing identities may cause internal conflict. Simultaneous navigation of queer and religious/spiritual identities may result in experiencing lack of affirmation and negative messaging, affecting successful negotiation and integration of these two identities, potentially affecting mental health. Awareness of this potential intersectional conflict is important for counselors treating these individuals.Here we present counselors with a framework for understanding intersecting identities by applying self-categorization theory and exploring the continued influence effect.

In providing couples and family counseling to sexual/affectional and gender variant minorities (i.e., queer persons), couples and family counselors (CFCs) need to recognize that religious and spiritual identity can be salient topics. While many queer persons embrace an irreligious identity, some queer individuals embrace varied degrees of religious/spiritual identification. In a partnership, an intrarelational conflict could result when the partners do not adhere to a similar level of religiosity or spirituality. CFCs must be prepared to accept the possibility of such conflict, allow for the embrace of religious identification, and offer counseling practices that will bridge that relational gap.