Enriching Future Therapeutic Conversations with Lesbian Clients.

Abstract

This article is based on research I completed in 2009 as part of the requirements for a Master of Counselling degree at the University of Waikato. The dissertation, entitled "Lesbian Reflections on Past Counselling Experiences," reported the results of in-depth interviews with three lesbian women who live in New Zealand, exploring their experiences as clients in therapeutic relationships. Our conversations broadly covered five themes: homophobic practices; lesbian culture; politics; the importance of boundaries, and difference. By reflecting on the participants' stories, counsellors are invited into practices that will provide sensitive support for lesbian clients with whom they may work in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] Copyright of New Zealand Journal of Counselling is the property of New Zealand Association of Counsellors and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)