Counseling Lesbian and Gay College Students through the Lens of Cass's and Chickering's Developmental Models

Abstract

At some point, every college freshman asks “Am I okay?” or “Am I normal?” This question becomes more complicated when students who are lesbian or gay seek counseling. The universal issues that most college students encounter are compounded by struggles with developing a positive sexual identity while coping with prejudice. This article uses the seminal developmental theories of Chickering and Cass as the basis for exploration of and recommended interventions for some of the unique issues that lesbian and gay students face during their college experiences. The authors explore the impact of campus climate and community and provide suggestions for helping lesbian and gay students transition to and thrive in the college milieu.

KEYWORDS:

• college counseling
• LGB counseling
• college student development
• college students
• higher education service provision