Why is terminology important? (Reading)

Statistically speaking, at some point in their careers, counsellors, social workers, hotline/chat operators, psychologists, therapists will almost surely come across clients who identify as LGBTQI+, so they need to be prepared to work with this population. When working with sexual and gender diversity it is important for professionals to be able to use LGBTQI+ concepts comfortably and inclusively. Talking to the client is one of the most extensively used tools in counselling and every professional must be aware of the importance of the words that are used.

Also, it is important to keep in mind that the language and terminology are also changing and evolving. The terms that were a part of everyday language before (for example, the term “homosexual”) now carry negative connotations and should not be used. The language can be more challenging when working with trans persons (or persons who are questioning their gender identity). Besides knowing the basic terminology, it is also important for the professional to be open to the client’s own definitions. LGBTQI+ clients don’t necessarily know the terminology and concepts outlined in this chapter, they can have ideas and knowledge about gender and sexuality that are in line with societal binary thinking. You can guide them through these concepts if you feel that it could help the client in their identity exploration or in understanding themselves better, but you should restrain from correcting the labels they are identifying with.