Chapter 12: Preparing LGBTQ+ Students for Postsecondary Transitions Through Career Development

LGBTQ+ students face distinct challenges and need assistance in preparing for and navigating the postsecondary transition. However, due to limited research in this area, counselors lack adequate preparation and tools for supporting this population. The purpose of this chapter is to explore the environmental and developmental issues for LGBTQ+ students and ways in which school, career, and mental health counselors can support their postsecondary transition. The chapter includes a discussion of the cognitive information processing (CIP) theory and the psychology of working theory (PWT) to offer identity-affirming career services and evidenced-based interventions grounded in theory.