How to Choose Counselors for Gay Couples

Choosing a counselor is a serious task for anyone seeking help. However, it can be even more difficult when you are half of a gay partnership. While counselors should be open-minded and respectful, finding a gay friendly couples counselor can be hard. Eliminate some of the guess work with the assistance of these steps.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Begin your search by asking other gay couples or friends if they have any names of good counselors. Check online to find gay friendly counselors as well.

2. Decide what your needs are from the counselor-if there is a specific problem you need to address or if there is general tension. Check the online database at the Association for Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual Issues in Counseling website to locate a certified counselor.

3. Schedule an appointment with some of the referrals you received from friends or online.

4. Meet with the counselor for the initial intake, and openly state your homosexual couple status. Then ask them in a frank manner whether, or not he is comfortable treating the two of you.

5. Proceed as normal after receiving a response as to whether she can take you on as clients. Begin looking for another counselor if she expresses concern, or if you sense unfamiliarity with your situation.

6. Ask the counselor who is uncomfortable whether he's aware of someone who is comfortable treating gay couples. Keep looking. Eventually you'll find someone suitable.

Tips & Warnings

• Check your local gay and lesbian support center, if there is one near you, for information on gay friendly counselors.
• Typically, religiously-based counseling isn't for some gay couples. However, there are some liberally tolerant religious counselors who do treat gay couples. Non-denominational churches tend to employ people for this kind of work.
• You may have to travel some distance if you live in a more suburban or rural area, but the positive effects can outweigh the inconvenience.