Counselors must be aware of the diverse types of students they serve, including those who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender. The counseling approach should focus on understanding what stage of acceptance the client is at regarding their sexual orientation. Common issues LGBT students face include identity confusion, anxiety, depression, abuse, and academic problems. Counselors should work to make institutional changes to support LGBT students and ensure a safe environment through policies, awareness programs, and resources.

1. Amanda WybleCounseling Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Students

2. Student PopulationCounselors in the school system must be aware of the many types of students and issues that will be dealt withGayStraightLesbianBisexualTransgender

3. Counseling ApproachKnow where the client is in terms of acceptance with their sexual orientationWith this knowledge, counselors can better identify with the problems the client might be facingTreatment for homosexual clients should be the same as any other clientBecome aware of the social and developmental norms students are facing

4. Counseling ApproachDepending on the stage the client is in, they will be going through different strugglesCounselors should focus on the strength these individuals possess and reiterate their worthiness of acceptance, rather than focusing on the negative

5. Common DisruptionsBecome aware of the social and developmental norms students are facing, as well as the common disruptions they may be dealing with:Identity confusionAnxiety and depressionsuicidal ideation and behaviorAcademic failureSubstance abusePhysical, sexual, and verbal abuseHomelessnessProstitutionSTD/HIV infection

6. Stages of AcceptanceSix stages through which homosexuals go progress when dealing with their orientation:Identity awarenessIdentity comparison Identity toleranceIdentity acceptanceIdentity prideIdentity synthesis

7. Institutional ChangesResponsibility of the counselor to ensure appropriate institutional changes are being made to accommodate LGBT students’ needs and provide a safer environmentFamiliarize themselves with the needs and counseling issues of LGBT clients and use non-stigmatizing and affirming mental health, educational, and community resources

8. Positive Interventions and SupportFurthering education for teachersBulletin board with resources for studentsImplement a comprehensive no bullying policyOrganizing awareness groups or programsGay-Straight AllianceSupport Groups

9. ResourcesAssociation for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Issues in Counseling (ALGBTIC)Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN)Gay-Straight Alliance Network

10. ReferencesAssociation of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Issues in Counseling. (2009). Competencies for counseling with transgender clients. Alexandria, VA: Author.Diaz, E. and Kosciw, J. (2009). Shared Differences: The Experiences of Lesbian, Gay Bisexual, and Transgender Students of Color in Our Nation’s Schools. New York: GLSEN.GLSEN. (2011). School Climate in Texas (Research Brief). New York: GLSEN.GLSEN. (2010). 2009 National School Climate Survey: Nearly 9 out of 10 LGBT Students Experience Harassment in School.Heffner, L. Christopher (2003). Counseling the gay and lesbian client: treatment issues and conversation therapy. AllPsyc Journal, 1-5.