When a Spouse Comes Out: As Told From a Straight Spouse’s Point of View

Abstract

We hear many stories about a spouse, heterosexually married for years, who reveals to a partner that she or he is gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender (GLBT). The professional literature has shown considerable interest in the coming-out experience of newly identified GLBT partners. The author is a counselor educator and has been a therapist for more than 15 years. She works with individuals, couples, and families on a myriad of issues, including spousal disclosure of homosexuality. The following story reflects a compilation of experiences encountered in her practice narrated from the perspective of a heterosexual spouse following her husband’s disclosure.