The disparity in the quality and accessibility of healthcare available to minorities, and sexual minorities in particular, is a growing concern. In March of 2011 The Institute of Medicine reported that Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender people have unique health needs, but that little is known about what those needs are. The Lancet Medical Journal followed with an April 2011 article stating that a large number of healthcare practitioners are not well informed about how to care for LGBT health concerns, particularly the needs of transgender individuals. That same month, an article in The Journal of Counseling Psychology pointed out that even well-meaning providers may exhibit certain levels of heterosexist micro-aggressions, or subtle attitudes that convey a negative connotation about an individual’s LGBT identity. As a result, LGBT individuals are less likely to seek healthcare, feel alienated by the healthcare community, and in some cases are not given the same level of care as the rest of the community.
In response to this growing need, a number of therapists in the Kansas City community have started an organization dedicated to serving the health needs of LGBT individuals and their families. The LGBT-Affirmative Therapists Guild of the Greater Kansas City area is a grassroots organization of licensed mental and medical health professionals, as well as students-in-training. We share a collaborative commitment to make affirming culturally competent healthcare available for all sexual minorities based on the premise that LGBT and heterosexual identities are equally valid. Our website (lgbtguild.com) provides consumers and practitioners with referrals and resources for LGBT health and advocacy concerns.
It is becoming more clearly defined that the role of being a healthcare provider includes the role of being an advocate. Healthcare providers, including therapists and doctors, are in a unique position to understand the impact that public policy has on clients who are underserved. The purpose of the Guild is to improve mental and medical healthcare services for LGBT individuals and their families. The organization creates an active network among LGBT-affirmative healthcare professionals and students to empower, educate and enhance professional growth. The organization is also dedicated to maintaining our professional responsibilities to multicultural competence by embracing a commitment to speaking out against inaccurate and harmful information pertaining to LGBT individuals, their lives, and their relationships.
Members of the Guild meet at various times throughout the year for consultation and education regarding the healthcare concerns of sexual and gender minorities. We are available to speak to businesses or organizations about LGBT related concerns. We are also happy to promote any public activities, groups, or events that enhance an understanding of LGBT people and their concerns. Membership in the Guild is free of charge and open to those from various disciplines and of any sexual orientation. Licensed practitioners and agencies are also eligible to be included in our on-line LGBT-Affirmative Psychotherapist and Healthcare Provider Directories. We welcome any questions and feedback you may have about our organization and website. New Members can register on-line at: lgbtguild.com.
