As someone known for working with the LGBTQQI population (for those of you whom would hesitate to ask, these initials stand for "Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning and Intersex; sometimes shortened to LGBT), colleagues often inquire about various clinical issues, perspectives, and approaches as they relate to these communities.  What follows is a brief synthesis of my subjective experience with this topic.  For the purpose of this article I'll be providing just the highlights, as there is a wealth of information on the topic found across various bodies of work, trainings, curriculums (for example, see AAMFT-CA's certificate program on LGBT Affirmative Therapists), etc.

 

1. Use clients' vocabulary. Terms used to encapsulate identities and practices vary widely and are often unique to the individual. Chosen language may speak to generational or cultural considerations and other personal preferences. It is particularly important to adhere to slang terms, where clients can be observing how we respond and/or feel about these topics/experiences.

 

2. Ask for an explanation (of a topic/term/word usage) when you don't know. It is better to admit you don't know than pretend.  A proponent of curiosity helps, otherwise many LGBT people either sense judgment and/or expect it. Some clients will express their lack of desire to educate us, and this is an appropriate response, depending on the circumstances.  It is okay to admit to your own lack of experience, expertise and limitations.  

 

3. Be willing to educate yourself.  Furthering your knowledge through readings and continuing education can be invaluable.  Keep in mind that some clinicians (for example, clinicians of color) are often asked repeatedly to provide expertise and explanations and may therefore, as clients do, grow tired of being asked.

 

4. Show willingness to go where the client wants to go, even if it challenges you.  Perhaps the most common topic I've been consulted on is gay male sexuality, with an emphasis on safe and unsafe sex, risk factors for HIV and HIV status disclosure.  As a profession, we are seen as less comfortable with topics of sexuality, and yet in therapy, sexuality is such a vital area to explore, name and be curious about.  

 

5. Admit to empathic failures.  One of the more vital instructions I have had as a group therapist is the ability to understand, see and accept empathic failure. Exploring an empathic failure helps the individual client and often galvanizes an important discussion for the whole group.  I hope that today I am more comfortable with and convey an appropriate response to clients who feel misunderstood, not seen or otherwise frustrated with therapy and/or my role as therapist or group leader.  

 

6. Acknowledge relevant privilege issues reflecting gender, race, economic status, sexual orientation, ableism and others and how they might interact with the client's experience. 

 

7. Recognize and learn from countertransference. As with any other client, working on, understanding, and accepting your countertransference reactions is of utmost importance.  

 

Upcoming workshop schedule:

Time: 1:30-3:30

Location: Redwood Shores Library

399 Marine Pkwy, Redwood City, CA 94065

Please RSVP by Thursday, October 2nd. 

A vital part of group functionality and success is the preparation we do as group leaders. A screening (intake) session is an opportunity to educate clients about the parameters of the group, including expectations, purposes and challenges. Various well thought out questions and explorations with the client may help optimize the group functioning in several ways, including avoiding overt dissatisfaction from clients ("I didn't know the group was about this!") and deterring early and unexpected termination. Additionally, some clients may self select out of group, given the clarity of parameters described. Variations will be discussed as they pertain to group topic, length of group, commitment time, the leader's style and theoretical orientation.  

Time: 3:45-5:30pm

Location: San Francisco LGBT Center

 

 

 

In January/February of 2015 I will be starting a two hour consultation group, meeting twice monthly in Menlo Park.  Stay tuned for more details and feel free to let me know if you might be interested!

 

MENLO PARK

Monday 6:15-7:45pm  Gay & Bisexual Men's Psychotherapy Group | OPENINGS

Monday 8:00-9:30pm  Men's Psychotherapy Group | OPENINGS

  

SAN FRANCISCO | Gay Men's Psychotherapy Groups
*All Hayes Valley unless stated otherwise
Tuesday 5:50-7:20pm OPENINGS
Tuesday 7:30-9:00pm FULL
Wednesday 5:45-7:15pm FULL
Wednesday 7:25-8:55pm NEW GROUP BEGINS OCTOBER
Thursday 6:30-8:00pm FULL*
*Co-facilitated with Greg Millard, Ph.D., in the Financial District

 

Participation in groups involves an interview and screening process. Please contact Jamie Moran at [email protected] or 415.552.9408.