At Therapy Today, we help people live well, love well, and work well.
This is why we are sharing the following resource about why our language matters, how we strive to support our clients and staff, and the importance of using updated, inclusive LGBTQ+ language.
As this guide highlights, the language used on clinical paperwork makes a significant impact toward affirming someone’s identity. This is why we have updated our intake paperwork to include space for pronoun designation, and the option to include a preferred name after noting their legal name.
We have also included our therapist’s pronouns within their profile bios on our website to normalize this practice, and affirm our own staff’s identities.
Several of our therapists are LGBTQ+ allied, and we conduct yearly LGBTQ+ Inclusion Trainings for our staff, free of charge to them.
We encourage you to review this article so that you too can be informed and intentionally inclusive of those around you. There are several wonderful resources listed at the end of this article, however we have listed them at the end of this page, too.
https://www.premiernursingacademy.org/resources/workplace-lgbtq-inclusive-language
If you are in need of support today or anytime, Therapy Today is here for you. We offer same-day appointments and strive to be a safe, welcoming space for all. You can schedule an appointment at 517-481-2133.
LGBTQ+ Inclusive Language Resources
An Ally’s Guide to Terminology
This extensive piece created by GLAAD and the Movement Advancement Project describes specific ways in which terms should and shouldn’t be used.
CDC—Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Health
On this page, you can find all CDC research and recommendations about working with the LGBTQ+ community.
GLAAD
A significant resource for the LGBTQ+ community and allies, this organization provides a wealth of educational and policy resources for the workplace, schools, and everyday life.
Handshake
This is written for recruiters but applies to anyone in a workplace. The article, “70 Language Principles That Will Make You A More Successful Recruiter” details exactly how to appropriately speak in a place of employment. It includes not just LGBTQ+ related topics, but a myriad of others.
Lambda Legal
This LGBTQ+ civil rights organization can answer your policy and legal questions. They even have a section specifically related to healthcare.
PFLAG
PFLAG is the largest organization for LGBTQ+ family members and allies in the United States. They provide a wealth of information you can use as you learn more about helping this community and offer various resources regarding healthcare.
Rider University
This article includes examples of inclusive language for the LGBTQ+ community and other historically marginalized groups.
The Muse
“A Guide to Using Pronouns and Other Gender-Inclusive Language in the Office” is a thorough piece regarding the importance of this topic. It provides specific examples of how this can be done.
The National LGBTQIA+ Health Education Center
This organization provides “educational programs, resources, and consultation to health care organizations to optimize quality, cost-effective health care for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, asexual, and all sexual and gender minority (LGBTQIA+) people.” You can earn continuing education credits through this site, and the Center holds conferences you may find helpful.