Review of Empirical Research Focused on the Experience of Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Clients in Counseling and Psychotherapy.

Abstract

concluded in 2000 that lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) clients participate in therapy more frequently than heterosexual clients, and evidence indicates that this utilization pattern persists (Cochran, Sullivan, & Mays, 2003;Jones & Gabriel, 1999). Scholars have speculated that this may in part be a result of the distress created by both the social stigma and the stress associated with a minority status sexual orientation (Cochran, 2001;Cochran et al., 2003). These results are particularly meaningful when considered in a larger professional context. The American Psychological Association (APA, n.d.) has issued resolutions and guidelines for treatment that are affi rmative of LGB individuals (APA, Division 44/Committee on Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Concerns Joint Task Force, 2000), yet the professional literature is resplendent with articles debating the ethics and value of conversion therapy. Even those therapists who profess to be affi rmative in their approach demonstrate evidence of subtle heterosexual

Evaluation of a Culturally Inclusive Model of Sexual Minority Identity Formation

“…More specifically, the current study sought to validate revised, updated versions of the existing measures using a sample of sexual minority people of color. The model has been noted recently for its inclusiveness (e.g., Firestein, 2007;Liddle, 2007;Potoczniak, 2007), as well as for its applicability in counseling practice (e.g., Bieschke, Paul, & Blasko, 2007). Thus, psychometric work specifically investigating its appropriateness for sexual minority people of color contributes to the usefulness of this model (and associated measures) with diverse populations and expands the literature on sexual minority identification.…”

“…Scholars in the area of sexual minority identity formation have noted the model's inclusiveness (e.g., Firestein, 2007;Liddle, 2007;Potoczniak, 2007) and applicability to counseling practice (e.g., Bieschke, Paul, & Blasko, 2007).…”

Risk Reduction for HIV-Positive African American and Latino Men with Histories of Childhood Sexual Abuse

“…It is possible that psychosocial issues for MSM and MSMW are significantly different and that our intervention did not target issues most pertinent to the MSMW subculture. For example, more recent research is beginning to explore identity development, the influence of race/ethnicity and culture, stigma, and biphobia among bisexual men (Bieschke, Perez, Ruperto, & De Bord, 2007). Bisexual men may be particularly vulnerable to mental health problems due to biphobia (Dodge & Sandfort, 2007).…”

Affirmative Practice and Alternative Sexual Orientations: Helping Clients Navigate the Coming Out Process

“…Furthermore, some clinicians continue to promote the ''cure'' of same sex attraction and behavior through so-called ''conversion'' or ''reparative'' therapies. Research suggests that these approaches are of questionable efficacy, and can cause harm (Bieschke et al 2007;Greene 2007). A NASW (2000) position statement deems conversion and reparative therapies to be inconsistent with social work values and ethical principles; the professional associations of other mental health disciplines have reached similar conclusions (Crisp and McCave 2007).…”