Job Options in the LGBTQ Community

Gender and Sexuality Therapist

LGBTQ people have a higher risk of experiencing a mental health disorder. Mental health issues are particularly prominent among young people, too. For instance, around 46.8% of gay, lesbian, or bisexual youth report having considered suicide in the previous year, compared to 13.6% of heterosexual youth.  

This all adds up to a big need for psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists who specialize in treating this community. 

LGBTQ therapists counsel patients about issues related to their sexuality. Gender identity therapists also work with transgender clients, helping them make sense of the emotional and psychological aspects of their transitions. Additionally, some family psychologists work with same-sex families or couples.

Event Organizer or Promoter

If you are a people person who is business minded but also loves a good time, event production might be a good field for you. There are gay pride events all over the world, from San Francisco’s iconic summer celebration to Sydney's legendary Mardi Gras. In 2022, more than 4 million people attended Sao Paolo’s annual pride event.

In addition to annual Pride Month celebrations and parades and events for awareness days, many cities host monthly or weekly events for the queer community, from club nights to cocktail hours to business luncheons. All of these events require extensive organization and promotion, leading to a variety of jobs in event planning and production. 

Civil Rights Lawyer

Legal issues for the LQBTQ community abound. In March 2022, for instance, Florida passed legislation that bans discussion of sexual identity and gender, often referred to as the "Don't Say Gay" law.  Also, many states are seeking to pass legislation curbing the rights of transgender people.

There's a need for lawyers who can protect LGBTQ people from discrimination, make sure members of the community are aware of their rights, and battle attempts to advance legislation that limits the rights of the community.  

While some civil rights lawyers work for private firms, others are employed by organizations such as Lambda Legal and the ACLU.

Communications Specialist

The LGBTQ push for total equality has a prominent voice in the media, and many organizations, from grassroots efforts to the high-profile Human Rights Campaign, hire communication specialists to help craft their campaigns and make sure their messages are effective.

There are many opportunities for media professionals in communication fields: public relations, marketing, advertising, press strategy, and event production are just a few.

In addition, individuals with experience in the LGBTQ movement tend to be in high demand during election season, when politicians are looking for consultants who can help diversify their appeal. 

Nonprofit Employee

A wide range of roles is available at LGBTQ-advocacy nonprofits all around the country. This includes positions such as data entry, accounting, graphic design, and human resources, to name just a few.  

These groups exist at the city, state, national, and even international levels, and thus a wide range of different employment opportunities is possible, from entry-level positions to managerial roles. If relocation interests you, Europe or Asia could be in your future.

Organizations range from independent, locally run groups, such as MassEquality in Boston, to national institutions such as GLAAD and the Human Rights Campaign. Some international nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), such as Amnesty International, are heavily involved in efforts related to LGBTQ issues worldwide.

Queer Studies Professor

Lifelong students who are interested in academia and are pursuing an advanced degree in the study of sexuality might find teaching an interesting option. Through their sociology, psychology, political science, and English departments, many colleges and universities offer courses related to sexuality and gender studies.

Obtaining a postgraduate degree, either an M.A. or a Ph.D., in one of these fields opens up professional opportunities in academia, much like any other advanced degree would. 

Youth Counselor

Most cities have LGBTQ community centers that serve as meeting points for the gay community. Many of these organizations offer important services for adolescents who may be experiencing difficulty in coming out at home or in school or who are interested in the details of a sexual transition. 

Those with a background in psychology or social work who are interested in helping troubled youth might consider employment at an LGBTQ community center. Finding a job as a youth counselor can be a fulfilling opportunity to do meaningful work and—on a purely self-serving note—the job looks exceptional on a resume.

LGBTQ News Reporter

If you are a news junkie who's well versed in the gay community, you might want to consider working as a journalist. 

While you can work any beat, many news outlets cater specifically to the gay community. Huffington Post Gay Voices, The Advocate, Autostraddle, and Pink News are the heavy hitters. 

Same-Sex Marriage Officiant

As of 2019, it's estimated that there are more than half a million married same-sex couples. That means that same-sex marriage officiants are in demand to perform marriage ceremonies. 

While some ministers are specifically affiliated with churches or religious organizations, others are nondenominational practitioners who have obtained their ordination independently. 

Adoption Caseworker

Most individuals who work at adoption agencies are social workers who have an advanced Master of Social Work degree or a background in adoption law. If you do not have these qualifications, don't worry. There may be an entry-level position available while you finish your studies.

Adoption caseworkers help families through the extensive legal hoops, financial burdens, and potential emotional stress associated with adopting a child. Some adoption counselors work in government agencies, while others work with private adoption agencies. 

Many adoption agents who work specifically with same-sex couples looking to start a family are employed at private agencies that are experienced with the complicated laws of same-sex adoption.