Experiences of CCU Counselors with LGBTGEQIAP + Students: Holding Tensions and Honoring Sacredness

Researchers have identified various challenges faced by LGBTGEQIAP + students attending religiously affiliated colleges/universities (Yarhouse et al., 2021). Counselors at these institutions can play an invaluable role for these students. However, there is a dearth of research on these counselors’ experiences working with LGBTGEQIAP + students. Therefore, researchers answered the question, “What are the experiences of counselors at Christian colleges and universities who work with LGBTGEQIAP + students?” Through an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, three themes were derived: (a) working in tension; (b) navigating systemic layers; and (c) honoring sacredness. A discussion is included related to implications, limitations, and further research.