ABSTRACT
This chapter explains that lesbians, gay men, and bisexual men and women have a culture of their own, in addition to their other cultures. Such individuals have their own worldviews, perspectives on same- and different-sex orientations, and experiences with injustice and discrimination. As more lesbians, gay men, and bisexual persons come out and let their sexual orientations be known, counsellors will be increasingly called on to provide professional intervention throughout the lifespan. The chapter focuses on understanding LGBT clients, their coming out and identity development, and the unique challenges they face in the lifespan continuum. Because LGBT clients are in all four lifespan stages and live in all parts of the United States, it is difficult to provide specific demographics. As always, the emphasis will be on counsellors understanding clients' cultures and accepting the challenge to develop the attitudes, knowledge, and skills necessary to provide effective counselling intervention for LGBT clients.
