A detailed resource outlining how cisgender heterosexual mental health providers can engage in cultural humility when working with LGBTQ+ people.
Intersectionality
A term coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw, intersectionality is described as the different interlocking systems of oppression that function together and exacerbate one another. This can affect one's ability or inability to access things such as healthcare, mental health support, income assistance, employment, and many others. These interlocking systems include, but are not limited to, gender, race, class, sexual orientation, age, education, religion, and socioeconomic status.
Scenario: A married, Hispanic lesbian couple in their 50s who are struggling financially seeks help at their local Catholic church for assistance. They are told that the assistance is only for "traditional Catholic families" and are referred to their local social services agency. In front of them is a 35-year-old Caucasian man with his wife and children, who they know from the community to have an affluent lifestyle. They are getting bags of free food and water for their family and told to return should they need more as they "have plenty of extra." What are the interlocking systems of oppression that this couple is experiencing that may be affecting their ability to receive assistance from their church? As a mental health provider, how would you go about assisting this couple in getting the help they need?
LAYERS...
WE ALL HAVE THEM
-Natalis Anja-
Think about how your LGBTQ+ clients' "layers" affect and influence their individual experiences. How can you empower, encourage, and support them in getting their needs met while living their best life?
John Cho, LMHC, expert in the field of mental health and working with LGBTQ+ people, discusses the importance of cisgender heterosexual mental health providers acknowledging and recognizing the impact of intersectionality on an LGBTQ+ person's life and how every LGBTQ+ person's experiences are different and unique to that particular individual.
C.Winter Han—Ph.D., professor of sociology and expert on race, sexuality, gender, and queer studies—shares his experience studying Asian gay men's exposure to HIV and unprotected sex. He highlights the detrimental effects on populations when research is centered on whiteness.