LGBTQ+

What does LGBTQ+ stand for?

LGBTQ+ is the long shorthand that stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, etc. I use this term in my promotional materials because some people are still uncomfortable with the word "queer" as it has been reclaimed by the community, but to me they encompass the same thing.

Important note: just because your letter isn't present in the acronym (for example, Asexual/Aromantic, Nonbinary) doesn't mean anything: you're a valid member of the community if that's how you identify.

How do you specialize in such a thing?

I'll be honest, it's an ongoing learning process that will never be fully complete. My approach centers around the uniqueness of every identity and human being as well as our inherent commonalities. I'm going to ask a cisgender person in a heterosexual relationship the exact same questions I will ask a genderfluid person in an LGBTQ+ relationship, because I believe that nothing about our lives or experiences should be taken for granted or assumed.

Part of developing an intersectional practice is constant education on the vast variety of identities that comprise our communities. I work to continually accrue knowledge and experience of identities that are not my own, and when a client brings me new information, I incorporate it into my framework.