ABSTRACT
Issues related to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, asexual, and other sexual marginalized communities (LGBTQIA+) havereceived increased focus over the last 20 years. Previous conceptualization of these issues has contributed to pathologizing sexual orientation and gender expression, which has created barriers tothese communities receiving treatment for mental health or substance use diagnoses. Individuals in the listed communities still experience instances in which they are disconnected from their families based on sexual orientation or gender expression. Individuals in these communities are also at increased risk of crimes related to sexuality and gender expression. As a result, many LGBTQIA+ individuals may turn to substance use to cope with these experiences while also developing mental health-related symptoms. This chapter will review the specific needs of LGBTQIA+ populations while also providing the reader with recommendations as to how treatment programs can provide affirming programming. This chapter will review ways that counselors can advocate for LGBTQIA+ populations at an office level, community level, and national level. This chapter also provides information regarding national groups that support LGBTQIA+ populations.
