Counseling Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Youths

Abstract

The article focuses on the importance of counseling lesbian, gay and bisexual youths. Since the mid-1980s, information has increased substantially on identity development and coming out, family interactions, HIV prevention, victimization, suicide, and risk behaviors. But with few exceptions, counseling and clinical care have not kept pace with the rapidly changing experiences of today's generation of lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) youths. Violence and harassment appear to be on the increase, and greater awareness of same-sex sexual orientation may increase discomfort among heterosexual peers.