PSYC4313_SaraleeSanchez_Wk4Assignment

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Mid-America Christian University *

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PSYC4343

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Psychology

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Dec 6, 2023

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docx

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1 LGBTQ Saralee R. Sanchez Mid-America Christian University PSYC4314 Courtney Grossnickle November 13, 2023 LTBGQ
2 Have you ever heard the saying, “Being gay or straight is the same as wearing a bra or bikini top; only one is accepted in public?” Therapy for a homosexual and a heterosexual, although different, can still be beneficial. When treating a homosexual, there are many essential factors to assess; often, the treatment is different than for those who are heterosexual, and many needs during treatment may be different. Although lifestyles differ, treatment can always help some of the same internal conflicts. Important issues When treating a client who is homosexual, one of the most critical issues to assess is homophobic experience and the presence of internalized homophobia. This can result in shame, self-hatred, self-deprecating behaviors, influencing self-acceptance, and the expression of same- sex sexual feelings (Schwarzbaum & Thomas, 2008). Another critical issue is assessing suicidal ideation and substance abuse in the GBL client population. Some of the time, GBL clients find it easier to combat tension created by external homophobia when being under the influence. This can also lead to suicide due to the fear of parental rejection, lack of coping skills, and internalized homophobia (Schwarzbaum & Thomas, 2008)—lastly, depression related to loss and anxiety due to HIV diagnosis. Difference in treatment Treating heterosexuals is very different from treating homosexuals. For instance, homosexuals feel the need to hide their identities. Heterosexual clients do not feel the need to seek therapy as to why they are straight. Being that being straight to many may be considered the “correct or normal” thing based on religion, culture, and even ethnic background. Most homosexuals have a fear of not being treated with the appropriate empathy and respect
3 (Drescher & Fadus, 2020) . Often, this leads to finding a therapist who is of the same sexual orientation. Specific Needs For many of these clients, they require specific needs in order to have a successful session. One of the most common needs that may differ from someone who is not heterosexual is the need for the client and counselor to have the same sexual orientation. This makes the client feel the clinician can relate better than someone who has not experienced similar problems. Another need is the coming out process (Drescher & Fadus, 2020) . This is important because it helps the client consider if it is a wise decision and to whom due to the increasing risk of rejection from close family as well as homelessness ( Five Things Therapists Can Do When Working With LGBTQ+ Individuals | Society for the Advancement of Psychotherapy , n.d.) . Lastly, a need that is likely to be addressed in a homosexual is their internalized shame and homophobia. Clinicians can help develop self-esteem and self- forgiveness and create identification. This is important in helping the client create self-love, acceptance, and a sense of belonging. Conclusion We can agree that life is challenging; however, for many, life can seem overly different due to the lack of compassion. For many, they require a more sympathetic and empathic environment. A clinician, even of different sexual orientations, must be about to help with essential factors which need to be assess; often, the treatment is different than for those who are heterosexual, and many needs during treatment may be different. It is okay to let the client know that due to your lack of knowledge, you cannot help but be more than happy to refer someone who will be of better assistance.
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4 References Drescher, J., & Fadus, M. C. (2020). Issues arising in psychotherapy with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender patients. Focus , 18 (3), 262–267. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.focus.20200001 Five Things Therapists Can Do When Working with LGBTQ+ Individuals | Society for the Advancement of Psychotherapy . (n.d.). https://societyforpsychotherapy.org/five-things- therapists-can-do-when-working-with-lgbtq-individuals/ Schwarzbaum, S., & Thomas, A. J. (2008). Dimensions of multicultural counseling: A life story approach . Thousand Oaks: Sage Publishing.