Of Parades and Protestors: LGBTQ + Affirmative Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Abstract

Uniting Affirmative Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), this article introduces Affirmative ACT as an LGBTQ + positive modality uniquely suited to address identity suppression, self-acceptance, minority stress, and the impact of ironic process on internalized heterosexism and cissexism. By taking an inclusive approach to mindfulness; integrating affirmation and emotional acceptance; queering functional contextualism; and highlighting value congruent self-actualization, an Affirmative ACT approach provides an adaptable framework to meet the dynamic mental health needs of LGBTQ + clients. Affirmative ACT’s use of psychological flexibility is also discussed as a beneficial practice for mental health counselors working with diverse populations.

Keywords:

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
• Affirmative Therapy
• LGBTQ+
• gay
• transgender
• nonbinary
• ironic process
• psychological flexibility