Group therapy with international LGBTQ+ clients at the intersection of multiple minority status

Abstract

Members of sexual/gender minority groups, who are also immigrants and refugees face multiple problems in adapting to their new cultures. Often their sexual interests or gender expression was stigmatised, pathologised, criminalised and persecuted in their home cultures/countries. In this article, we discuss the special problems with acculturation to their new cultures faced by such individuals in a North American milieu. They are at the intersection of multiple minority identities (i.e. ethnic, racial, religious, immigrant, refugee). We provide a model of group therapy for international LGBTQ+ clients who have been persecuted for their sexual/gender minority expressions. Clinical, professional and ethical considerations are explored for dealing with international sexual/gender minority clients in therapy. The conclusion includes recommendations for professional development and for broadening the sphere of knowledge and training in the field.