The Experiences of Licensed Clinicians Counseling Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Queer Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence

Abstract

The purpose of this generic qualitative study was to explore the experiences of 10 licensed clinicians who have provided services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer populations (LGBQ) who are survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). After the data was collected, transcribed, and coded, five main themes emerged from this study: (1) past experiences impacting rendering services, (2) confirmation of IPV within LGBQ populations, (3) challenges of rendering services, (4) training considerations, and (5) a call for change in the mental health profession. Implications, including training considerations, and directions for future research are considered.

Keywords:

• Generic qualitative research
• intimate partner violence
• LGBQ
• licensed clinicians