Stage 1: Identity ConfusionThis is the question “Who am I?” Phase associated with the feeling of being different from one's peers. This phase is also characterized by a growing sense of personal alienation. The person begins to be aware of homosexual feelings or behaviors and to label them as such. It is rare at this stage for the person to reveal their inner turmoil to others (website). In terms of career counseling, a person at this stage may begin to look at careers that are outside of their comfort zone. An LGBT person can begin to take note of careers that are outside of their traditional gender lists. For example, a person who identifies as lesbian may have some interest in a career in construction or a trade that may be dominated by men. I think the main point to take into account about this phase is that it appears to be very internal. The person who identifies as LGBT is actually just coming to terms with who they are. Phase 2: Identity Comparison This is the rationalization or bargaining phase in which the person thinks, “I could be homosexual, but then I could be bisexual,” “Maybe this is only temporary,” or “My feelings of attraction are simply about a 'other person of the same sex as me and this is a special case." There is an acute sense of not belonging anywhere with the corresponding feeling that "I am the only one in the world like this". (website). In terms of career counseling, I think this phase is a bit like the rational phase. A person who identifies as LGBT may start looking for careers that are outside the standards they are used to. However, it appears that an LGBT person may consider how they will fit into a mainstream career. I feel like this stage generates a lot of uncertainty for that person in terms of how they will be treated…middle of paper…forward. I feel that the person is ready to fully incorporate their experience into their work. It is at this stage that an LGBT-identified person can embark on the push towards the new challenges begun in stage 5 and embark on new and exciting career and life paths. Conclusion I think it's a good idea to take note of the identity crisis an LGBT person might be going through. through, in terms of career. I would say from the consultant's perspective helping the client provide perspective. Furthermore, it gives the client the hope of a fruitful career. Furthermore, I believe that keeping these stages in mind will help the client grasp that hope and create a narrative for a career that will truly fit symbiotically with their values, goals and needs. Works Cited Adapted from Vivian Cass (1979, 1984, 1990). In Ritter and Terndrup (2002) Handbook of affirmative psychotherapy with lesbians and gay men