Affirmative Telemental Healthcare with LGBTQ+ Youth

Many LGBTQ+ (e.g., lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, Two-Spirit) youth want to participate in mental health services but cannot access care due to a lack of affirmative mental health providers and other barriers (e.g., transportation, geographic distance, lack of affirming parent to consent). More affirmative mental health providers are needed, including those who can provide services via telehealth. In the LGBTQ+ community, telehealth has been described as an important technological advancement with the potential to reduce barriers and improve access to culturally sensitive care. Limited research has studied the effectiveness of telehealth interventions with LGBTQ+ youth; however, LGBTQ+ youth appear poised and ready to benefit from virtual programming, such as telehealth services. This chapter will highlight the experiences, perceptions, and needs of LGBTQ+ youth, including their experiences of minority stress and their engagement in the online world. Additionally, we will review the emerging research regarding affirmative care practices in virtual space that may benefit the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ+ youth.