Gay and Lesbian Clients' Ratings of Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Social Workers, and Counselors

Abstract

Three hundred thirty-six gay and lesbian volunteers rated their therapy experiences between 1990 and 1995 with 46 psychiatrists, 77 counselors, 207 psychologists, and 107 social workers. Clients rated psychiatrists less helpful than the other three professional groups, which did not differ significantly from each other. Comparisons of the frequencies of various appropriate and inappropriate practices with gay and lesbian clients helped explicate differences in client satisfaction among the four professional groups. For example, according to client reports, psychiatrists were far more likely than other professionals to discount, argue against, or push the client to renounce his or her self-identification as a lesbian or gay man (11% of psychiatrists vs. 1% of other mental health professionals). Recommendations are made for professional training and dialogue.

Key Words:

• Psychiatry
• homophobia
• homosexuality
• mental health training