The LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and all others whose sexual orientation and/or gender identity differs from the majority) community often faces unique challenges related to discrimination, stigmatization, and minority stress, which can significantly impact on their mental health and well-being. Psychosocial support and counseling play a key role in providing a safe and accepting environment that enables LGBT people to cope with these challenges. Despite progress in the field of human rights and greater social acceptance, LGBT people still often experience social exclusion and need specialized support that takes into account their specific needs and experiences.
The master's thesis explores psychosocial support and counseling for LGBT people in Ljubljana and wider Slovenia. It includes interviews with professionals who provide counseling and psychosocial work (psychotherapists, psychologists, special educators) and representatives of non-governmental organizations that provide support to the LGBT community, as well as a survey among members of the LGBT community. The goal of the research is to identify and record new subjective dimensions and factors of counseling and psychosocial work with LGBT people.
Research questions focus on the influence of social factors such as family support, friendship and community on the mental health of LGBT people; facing LGBT people with various forms of discrimination and their impact on lifestyle; the impact of stressful events and experiences related to LGBT identity on mental health; and expert approaches to sensitive and inclusive counseling of LGBT persons.
We have found that family and friends' support is crucial in accepting one's own gender identity and orientation. At the same time, coming out is not a one-off act, but a continuous process that can last for the rest of one's life. LGBT people face discrimination and minority stress, most often reacting emotionally and seeking help from NGOs. The research contributes to a better understanding of the specific needs of the LGBT community and examines the different approaches that professionals use in creating a safe and accepting environment and establishing a confidential relationship between LGBT people and professionals in the field of psychosocial work and counseling.
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