These statistics are distressing, but what can we do about them? As people, just showing kindness and understanding can go a long way to changing someone\u2019s day or even life. When we keep in mind our language and how we talk about different groups of people, we take into consideration the impact we have on other people every day. But what about as clinicians?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t assume someone\u2019s gender or sexual orientation. If you\u2019re able to have your own intake forms, look into making sure they are as inclusive as possible. If you work for a group practice that has the same forms for everyone, advocate for the LGBTQOA+ community by approaching whoever is in charge of the forms and suggesting more inclusive language and changes to them. It can be the best way to set up a safe environment almost immediately before a client even meets with you. Also remember to include a third gender option of your forms, if you ask for a client\u2019s gender. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Provide a space for them that makes them feel safe. There are many ways you can do this both during intake and going forward. It\u2019s not appropriate to ask about medical transitioning unless the individual brings it up first as medical transition can be an especially sensitive topic for many people. You wouldn\u2019t ask a cisgender person details about their genitals and you shouldn\u2019t ask a transgender individual about this, either. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Make sure to use their pronouns; a good way to know them is to have this included on your intake form or to make a point of asking every client during the first appointment what their pronouns are. It\u2019s important to ask all clients because there is no way to know just by looking at someone what their gender or pronouns are. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t use their deadname if it is still their legal name; giving an option for a chosen name on your intake form alongside the legal name can help you know how best to refer to your clients. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Learn how they want to refer to their partners. Understand the most up to date terms to avoid using outdated, now offensive words to describe identities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Be prepared with resources that are tailored for LGBTQIA+ individuals. For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n