Affirming Therapy in Response to Minority Stress Among LGBTQ+ Clients
摘要
This chapter describes the use of a process-based, contextual behavior therapy as one model that can affirm and support LGBTQ+ clients affected by minority stress. Minority stress is the result of societal bias – harm done upon LGBTQ+ people by the collective and individual actions of politicians, media misrepresentations, societal movements, or rejection from loved ones and family, which ultimately shape and stamp themselves upon the inner and outer behaviors of LGBTQ+ individuals and maintain or perpetuate instances of harm. These therapies may reduce suffering due to carrying painful histories, promote resilience and thriving, and encourage more vulnerable and meaningful relationships. Process-based, affirming, contextual behavior therapies provide one path forward in responding to the harms of minority stress and finding valued paths forward to create a better world.