Systems-level Barriers in Accessing Supportive Mental Health Services for Sexual and Gender Minorities: Insights from the Provider's Perspective

Abstract

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people report poorer mental health outcomes than do heterosexual, cisgender (non-trans) people, but little is known about their experiences with mental health services. In this qualitative study, 8 mental health service providers with substantial experience working with LGBT communities were interviewed in order to begin to examine systems-level barriers to supportive mental health services for LGBT people. The results suggest that the medical model, which is pervasive in the mental health system, produces particular access barriers for LGBT people. We offer recommendations for addressing these barriers, including implementing an anti-oppression approach to mental health care.