Parts of Me: An Internal Family Systems Lens on the LGBTQIA + Coming out Experience

Abstract

Sexual and gender identity self-disclosure, also known as ‘coming out’, is a decision-making journey that is part of the lived experience of the LGBTQIA + population. While navigating the coming out journey is unique for each LGBTQIA + individual, however, this community shares higher risks of experiencing certain constraints. These constraints, namely familial rejection, substance use, and psychological distress, are often felt once members of this community begin the “coming out” process. The purpose of this manuscript is to provide clinicians with a theoretical understanding of Internal Family Systems therapy (IFS) and explore a proposed application of the theory to aid LGBTQIA + clients in the “coming out journey”. The theory’s key concepts can be utilized to address the constraints placed upon this population, as well as promoting self-actualization. Further, the promotion of affirming therapy services is both critical and timely as recent political changes have negatively impacted the LGBTQIA + community. This paper will outline a case study where an LGBTQIA + client examines their identity self-disclosure process through IFS treatment phases. We will also propose a clinical intervention that will aim to further the experiential nature of therapy and aid in the process of becoming Self-led.

Keywords:

• Internal family systems
• LGBTQIA+
• coming out
• affirming care
• self–disclosure

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).