Abstract
This chapter addresses the role of school counselors as advocates for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and intersex (LGBTQQI) students. School counselors are a critical part of the delivery of mental health services and are at the front lines of this system and therefore are often the first to see problems as they arise in young people. The chapter presents the case of Donald Wilson, a 15-yearold high school student who is questioning his sexual orientation. It addresses in a comprehensive way the resources, barriers (including professional, familial, legal, and confidentiality issues), and role of the school counselor in being an effective advocate for LGBTQQI students. The chapter also demonstrates the importance of recognizing developmental as well as diagnostic and cultural issues that might contribute to problems presented by sexual minority youth. It concludes by revisiting the school environment to make recommendations for school personnel.
Original language | English (US) |
---|---|
Title of host publication | Casebook for Counseling |
Subtitle of host publication | Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Persons and Their Families |
Publisher | American Counseling Association |
Pages | 7-22 |
Number of pages | 16 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9781119221715 |
ISBN (Print) | 9781556203060 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Sep 26 2015 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Adult development
- Culturally sensitive counselor
- Diagnostic issues
- LGBTQQI students
- Mental health services
- School counselors
- School students
- Sexual minority youth
- Sexual orientation
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Psychology