Incorporating sexual orientation into MFT training programs: infusion and inclusion

Area of Science:

• Family Therapy
• Sexual Orientation Studies
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Concerns exist regarding family therapists' preparedness to serve sexual minority clients.
• Despite recommendations from the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE), sexual orientation remains marginalized in training.
• Heterosexist bias may be present in current marriage and family therapy curricula.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prompt family therapy trainers to evaluate their curricula for heterosexist bias.
• To provide strategies for integrating same-sex affectional and sexual orientations into training programs.
• To enhance the inclusivity of marriage and family therapy education.

Main Methods:

• Curriculum analysis for heterosexist bias.
• Development of integration strategies for classroom and clinical settings.
• Review of existing literature on sexual orientation in therapy training.

Main Results:

• Identified a gap in current family therapy training regarding sexual minority clients.
• Highlighted the persistence of heterosexist bias in educational programs.
• Proposed actionable methods for curriculum enhancement.

Conclusions:

• Family therapy training programs require critical examination for heterosexist bias.
• Integration of sexual orientation issues is crucial for competent practice with sexual minority clients.
• Educational reform is necessary to ensure inclusive and affirming family therapy services.