Unfortunately the health care (medical and mental alike) are still holding onto many of the -isms and phobias. Alphabet Soup LLC is working or various courses to help providers. This page is for clients and patients seeking affirming care, and learning to advocate for themself.

There is not always safety to be out, and we want to recognize and honor that first and foremost.

In order to truly get the full care you deserve, it is important to be honest with your provider team. This helps to get the appropriate care and adequate risk assessments. Affirming language can be gained by being honest and out with your providers. We stand by the fact that all providers should be using neutral language for pronouns and orientation as the default, and switch once the client or patient confirms or corrects them. Even better, they should have these relevant things on their intake forms. 

Doctors need to know (but only what is relevant to the care you are seeking):

• the types of sex you are having
• what barriers are being used
• when barriers are being used (for what activities)
• if you are being abused
• if you are in a BDSM or kink relationship
  • what types of risky behaviors you engage in & how to tell what is consensual vs. abuse
• any health concerns

And your providers should be creating the safety for you to be honest about these topics.

Therapists need to know (but only what is relevant to the care you are seeking):

• if you are being abused
• if you are in a BDSM or kink relationship
  • what types of risky behaviors you engage in & how to tell what is consensual vs. abuse
• any mental health concerns
• And your providers should be creating the safety for you to be honest about these topics.

Providers should inquire what your labels and pronouns, and respect them. Offering these things can help create the safety with your provider.