LGB Affirmative Training and Clinical Competency: Differences in Couple and Family Therapy Students Who Receive Training at Religious Vs. Secular Institutions

Abstract

This study determined if any differences exist in the level of affirmative training received, beliefs about sexual orientation, and perceived clinical competency with lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) clients of 231 couple and family therapy (CFT) students who attend COAMFTE accredited institutions. Independent t-tests were used to compare mean scores of students who attend secular versus religiously affiliated institutions to determine if there was a difference in levels of affirmative training received, beliefs about sexual orientation, and perceived clinical competency with LGB clients. Significant differences were found in overall LGB affirmative training levels as well as therapist competency in working with LGB clients. Students did not report differences in the level of affirmative curriculum content pertaining to LGB topics that they received. Training implications are discussed such as COAMFTE providing more structured guidelines for schools to prepare students to work with LGB clients in a positive affirming manner.