Professional expectations of provider LGBTQ competence: Where we are and where we need to go

Abstract

Introduction Mental and behavioral health professional organizations use their governing documents to set expectations of provider competence in working with LGBTQ + clients. Method The codes of ethics and training program accreditation guidelines of nine mental and behavioral health disciplines (n = 16) were analyzed using template analysis. Results Coding resulted in five themes: mission and values, direct practice, clinician education, culturally competent professional development, and advocacy. Expectations for provider competency vary greatly across disciplines. Conclusion Having a mental and behavioral health workforce that is uniformly competent in meeting the unique needs of LGBTQ populations is key for supporting the mental and behavioral health of LGBTQ persons.