Many lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender people come out years after they have been married to an opposite-sex heterosexual wife or husband. While psychologists are encouraged to recognize the particular challenges LGBT people may face in coming out, it is also important to recognize that the spouses and families of these individuals may require therapeutic support. The resources on this page are provided to help students and psychologists better understand the particular issues and concerns that may arise with the straight spouse.
Professional Resources
"Shining a Light Into the Darkness: Bisexuality and Relationships"
Sexual and Relationship Therapy, February 2018
A major goal of this special issue is to highlight the intricacy of bisexual relationships and to provide greater direction to mental health providers working with bisexual individuals and their partners.
"Mixed-Orientation Marriages: Challenges of Individual Spouses and GLB-Straight Couples in Diverse Contextsopens in new window"
Journal of GLBT Family Studies Special Issue, January 2012
"Counseling Heterosexual Spouses of Bisexual Men and Women and Bisexual-Heterosexual Couples: Affirmative Approachesopens in new window"
Journal of Bisexuality, 2006
"Handbook of LGBT-Affirmative Couple and Family Therapy"
Chapter 17, by Carol Grever, "Helping Heterosexual Spouses Cope When Their Husbands or Wives Come Out," reviews clinical issues, stages of recovery, counseling options and characteristics of effective therapy specifically for straight spouses.
Support Resources
Unseen-Unheard: Straight Spouses from Trauma to Transformation
Amity P. Buxton, PhD, & R. L. Pinley
2013
"OurPathopens in new window"
OurPath supports Straight Partners of LGB People and Partners of Trans People post discovery or disclosure. Whether separating, divorcing, or remaining in a Mixed Orientation Relationship, OurPath empowers the heterosexual partners of LGBT+ people to find their own path to healing, acceptance, and a new normal. Research and resources available for mental health professionals whose clients are Straight Partners or Partners of Trans People.
Additional Help
You can also use APA’s Psychologist Locator Serviceopens in new window or call your local or state psychological association to find a psychologist licensed to practice in your state who can help.