Gender, Sexual and Relational Diversity (GSRD) is a more inclusive term for the more traditionally used LGBT (IQ) (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender/ sexual, intersex, questioning). It encompasses a wider range of gender, sexual and relationally diverse identities including, but not restricted to, people who either engage in Kink/BDSM (bondage, dominance, discipline, submission, sadism and masochism) practices, lifestyles or relationships – irrespective of sexual orientation. This includes people who may identify anywhere across the gender spectrum and not simply intersex or transgender, plus those who identify anywhere across the monogamous/non-monogamous relationship spectrum (Click on the image to the left to see an Infographic on this).

Gender and Sexual Diversity Therapy is a recent and deliberate move away from Gay Affirmative Therapy (GAT) to encompass and support all forms, aspects and issues around gender and sexual diversities. It is a trans-theoretical approach where all theoretical models, including the transpersonal ones, can operate within their central organising principles. It is therefore a form of therapy and counselling that is cognisant of the social and spiritual context in which gender and sexual diversities live, as well as the particular concerns of each individual. It works with the hypervigilance and consequences of living within a society which is biased towards heteronormativity and binary conception of gender. It helps clients understand their experiences and the impact of external oppressions, how they are internalised and a range of issues specific to these populations and communities. It stresses the need for clients to self-define and for developing personally relevant values and moral codes.

You can read more about Gender and Sexual Diversity Therapy (GSDT) here.