Evidence-Based Relationship Variables When Working With Affectional and Gender Minority Clients: A Systematic Review

In this systematic review, we synthesized the quantitative and qualitative research examining the role of evidence-based relationship variables (EBRVs) in the treatment of affectional and gender minority (AGM) individuals. A comprehensive search of PsycINFO, Web of Science, and PubMed from 2009 to 2019 yielded 14 unique studies (15 articles in total). Most studies examined the role of empathy and alliance. Positive regard, strong therapeutic alliances, genuineness, and empathy were all associated with improvements in treatment engagement and treatment outcome. There appeared to be no evidence that matching clients on sexual or gender identities improved outcomes. There were methodological concerns in the literature in regard to the use of hypothetical scenarios and variability in study design and measures. In sum, more research is needed to explore how EBRVs may be a necessary component of AGM affirmative care. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)