When to refer : Religiosity and counseling students\u27 decision to refer GLBT clients

This paper sought to investigate how religious beliefs affect counseling students\u27 thoughts about referring gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) clients. A thorough review of the research literature examined: attitudes toward sexual minorities, religiosity and attitudes toward sexual minorities, and GLBT issues in counselor education. Findings suggest religious attitudes are often related to negative, or at least, non-affirming beliefs/behaviors towards members of sexual minority groups. There are serious legal and ethical implications for counselors who refuse to treat GLBT clients. The research also suggests education can be a means of moderating discriminatory tendencies in counseling students who struggle with balancing their personal religious values against the best interest of GLBT clients. Suggestions for future research are included