Affirmative Counseling Behaviors with GLB Clients – ACBGLBC

I help my clients establish connections in the lgb community.

I inquire whether the lgb client wants children, and if so, I feel able to assist them in considering various options.

I educate clients about their legal rights if they find they are being discriminated against because of sexual orientation.

I assist lgb clients in exploring social opportunities that do not involve bars, nightclubs, or other events that revolve around alcohol.

I help lgb clients make contacts with "out" role models.

I am familiar with current research regarding stages of lgb identity development.

I am familiar with state and local laws that might affect lgb clients around issues (e.g., marriage, domestic partnership, sexual practices, childrearing, adoption, and employment).

I discuss how to cope with on-the-job discrimination or harassment that is based on sexual orientation.

I routinely discuss issues of sexual orientation identity development with clients.

In my office, I have visible signs of lgb affirmation (i.e., posters, books, buttons, etc.).

I discuss the costs and benefits of "passing" as heterosexual.

I assist lgb clients in trying to influence work environments to make them more open to those who are lgb.

I explore the client's internalized homophobia and heterosexism when discussing issues related to shame.

I routinely refer clients to programs or resources related to their presenting problems that specifically address the needs of lgb individuals.

I provide groups, programs, or services specific to lgb populations.

When working with lgb clients who have a disability, I assess the extent to which their disability affects their involvement in the lgb community.

I discuss geographical issues that may be relevant with respect to lgb issues.

I assist those clients who are also racial/ethnic minorities to negotiate the norms regarding sexual orientation of both mainstream and racial/ethnic minorities.

I assist lgb clients in assessing work environment attitudes toward sexual orientation.

I attend conference seminars and workshops that increase my knowledge and skill relevant to working with lgb individuals.

I discuss ways of handling domestic partnership issues in the workplace.

When working with lgb clients who have a disability, I explore the extent to which medical and rehabilitation personnel are affirmative of diverse sexual identities.