Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, Vol 56(6), Dec 2025, 452-461; doi:10.1037/pro0000647
Lesbian, gay, and bisexual+ (LGB+) couples are at heightened risk for break-up, potentially attributed to sexual identity-related stressors such as stigmatization, discrimination, and lack of social support for the relationship. Although nonheterosexual couples are pursuing therapy, their needs are often left unmet. This study examined formal (e.g., help from trained professionals) and informal (e.g., help from friends and family) forms of relationship help-seeking behaviors, perceived helpfulness of attained resources, and barriers to service use with the intention of enhancing relationship resources for sexual minority couples. A community sample of 127 (N = 254) LGB+ monogamous couples comprising gay (36.2%, n = 92), lesbian (20.9%, n = 53), and bisexual+ (42.1%, n = 107) adults completed online self-report measures. Individuals were predominantly White (89.4%, n = 227) and male (60.2%, n = 153). When seeking relationship help, couples most frequently reported consulting with a friend or family member about relationship issues, seeking relationship information online, and engaging in individual counseling. Among those who sought help, most individuals perceived all forms of relationship resources to be mostly or extremely helpful. Concerns such as being declined care due to prejudice and a lack of competent professionals to work with LGB+ individuals were prominent barriers to accessing formal relationship help resources. Findings suggest the importance of receiving care from professionals who demonstrate competency in LGB+-specific stressors and experiences. Tailoring and enhancing currently available relationship resources would likely improve accessibility and perceived helpfulness to better serve the needs of LGB+ couples. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)