Cultural competency with LGBTQ+: a Talk with Derek Scott

Derek Scott, founder of IFSCA and an experienced IFS practitioner, returns to IFS Talks to discuss the impact of cultural values on LGBTQ+ individuals and the role of IFS in addressing internalized shame. Scott highlights the importance of recognizing heteronormative biases and how they contribute to mental health challenges within the queer community. He shares a personal story of unburdening a 12-year-old part burdened by societal messages equating homosexuality with deviancy. The conversation explores the complexities of coming out, the ongoing nature of the process, and the value of LGBTQ+ therapists. Scott also addresses the need for cultural competence among therapists and the limitations of mainstream culture in understanding gender fluidity and diverse sexual expressions.