Psychologists in training: Developing LGBTQ+ cultural competence in trainees

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals continue to face significant mental health disparities due to structural oppression, societal stigma, and limited access to affirming care. Mental health trainees and clinicians across disciplines often report inadequate graduate training on gender and sexual diversity, increasing the risk of biased or uninformed clinical responses. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the Pride Healing Center’s LGBTQ+ affirmative training for doctoral trainees, examining changes in knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy. Thirty-two doctoral trainees in clinical psychology participating in a voluntary training program (75% White, 71.9% heterosexual, 28.1% LGBQ, and 9.1% nonbinary; ages 23–37), completed pre- and post-training measures: the LGBTQ+ DOCSS, Sexual Orientation Counselor Competency Scale, and Gender Expression and Attitudes Scale. Quantitative findings indicated significant gains in knowledge and clinical preparedness, with no significant changes in attitudes. Narrative feedback emphasized the importance of peer consultation, experiential learning, and more opportunities for in-person or hybrid delivery. Results suggest that LGBTQ+ affirmative training, particularly when integrated with supervision and clinical exposure, may enhance doctoral trainees’ perceived competence in working with LGBTQ+ clients. While preliminary, the results support the ongoing development and evaluation of identity-affirming training models within graduate education.