The Femme Continuum: The "Highs" and "Lows" of Visibility

[kannon]

Originally Posted by AtLastHome

Reading this just makes me seethe! This so called "professional" probably has the same kinds of degrees and state approved licenses that I and many others that are in the field have.

I hate this! And I have to say that it isn't the first time I have read about or personally come across therapists like this. If this person really does hold a valid state license- REPORT (this is mal-practice/incompetence)!!! Sometimes therapists (depending on the state requirements and laws) can practice in a state without a professional license. Consequently, there is really no legal remedy for the harm that someone with this lack of knowledge and down right incompetence can do.

It is so important to check on the credentials of a therapist before seeing them. Also, go to your state's licensing board's website and see if non-licensed therapists are allowed to practice in your state in any form. In most states, even those with "in-active" status of their license cannot practice.

This is a very real problem and look at what can happen to people in our community when these idiots are out there practicing! You can also (in most states in the US), look up any prior infractions or mal-practice claims against a clinician. Plus, there is some good information on how to select a therapist written- and how to conduct pre-selection interview with a prospective therapist.

A fully licensed clinician has to have their state licensing registration number on all ads and business cards- you can look this number up on a state licensing board's website.

Unfortunately, I didn't report her. She claimed to be licensed and in good current standing with state licensing board.

Many of the LPCs are not required to take courses that address LGBT issues. However, they are supposed to be trained in ethics and diversity. So, I would hope to see a certain measure of understanding or recognition that people have their own unique personal experiences which shape who they are and how they perceive their world. She had none of that.

It is really scary thinking about some young, suicidal, easily influenced girl receiving counseling for her "homosexual" thoughts. This counselor may have her convinced that she was molested and only needs to resolve symptoms of PTSD to recover. It's a shame.