Speaking vulnerable issues into existence: their consequences for psychotherapy1.
BACKGROUND
Healthcare has traditionally been dominated by norms making the sexual orientation of clients invisible.


OBJECTIVE
To explore processes counteracting or promoting invisibility.


METHODS
A single case study based on notes from psychotherapy and a research interview.


RESULTS
The client's story can be understood in terms of pathology but also in terms of finding her lesbian lifestyle. A special focus is required for transcending heterosexuality and for realizing the meaning of being a lesbian in everyday life.


CONCLUSIONS
In conducting inquiries, practitioners need to be aware of how their own norms take heteronormativity for granted. This aids recognition of the important need for gay and lesbian clients to tell their personal stories.
Ohnstad
Anbjørg
A
Social Welfare Research Centre, Faculty of Business, Public Administration and Social Work, Oslo University College, Oslo, Norway. Anbjorg.Ohnstad@oks.hio.nl
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003863:Depression / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D018452:Homosexuality, Female / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D033262:Narration; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D011613:Psychotherapy; D012649:Self Concept