Assessing Service Providers at LGBTQ-Affirming Community Agencies on Their Perceptions of Training Needs and Barriers to Service

Abstract

Service providers (N = 109) at lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ)-affirming social service agencies were surveyed on their perceived training needs, experiences, and barriers to service access experienced by their clients. Hierarchical regression analysis identified that training experiences significantly influenced self-perceived competence, controlling for agency-related factors including the extent of perceived barriers to service. Findings are discussed with implications for training, practice, and future research.

KEYWORDS:

• LGBT centers
• service providers
• client barriers
• regression