Impact of interpersonal client–provider relationship on satisfaction with mental healthcare among the LGBTQ+ population

Abstract

Background

Gender and sexual minorities are more likely to report unfavourable experiences with primary care. Aside from being refused care, additional challenges include stigma, discrimination, social and societal rejection, and violence.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to determine which aspects of the client–provider relationship affected perceived satisfaction with the quality of mental healthcare received.

Methods

Data was collected via electronic survey, which yielded 177 responses. Univariate and ordinal logistic regression were used to determine if a significant relationship existed between the variables of interest.

Results

Results indicate that clients who felt less trust for their providers, reported inadequate time spent in therapeutic encounters, and felt their providers looked down on or judged them were less satisfied with the quality of mental healthcare they received. In addition, LGBTQ+ clients who were less satisfied with the quality of care they received were significantly less confident in their ability to receive adequate future mental healthcare.

Conclusions

Results of this study highlight the importance of provider awareness, attitude, and access to information regarding the mental health needs of the LGBTQ+ population because these support culturally competent care, which potentially encourages future care-seeking behaviors.

Keywords:

• LGBTQ+ health
• mental health
• healthcare quality
• care-seeking
• provider–client relationship
• client–provider interaction
• patient satisfaction

Disclosure statement

The authors disclose no financial interests or benefits have arisen from the direct applications of this research.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Ohio University’s Interdisciplinary Research Award.