The Family Journal, Ahead of Print.
Therapist self-disclosure is a highly debated topic in the world of mental health professionals, but when done appropriately, can benefit the therapeutic alliance. Furthermore, it is well-researched that a strong therapeutic alliance is one of the strongest indicators for positive therapy outcomes. Currently, there is a gap in research for best practices for LGBTQ+ clinicians and self-disclosure, particularly working with LGBTQ+ clients. This study surveyed LGBTQ+ individuals on their experiences of their therapist’s self-disclosure of their sexual orientation and its impact on the therapeutic alliance. Overall, all respondents reported that there was a positive impact of the self-disclosure, regardless of if it was before or during the course of therapy. Respondents also shared that having a therapist that is aware of LGBTQ+ issues were important to them, regardless of if the therapist themselves are a part of the LGBTQ+ was community.
