The Case of Felix: An Example of Gay-Affirmative, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Felix, a Gay Latino man, presented with anxiety and panic attacks, which were addressed as symptoms of minority stress and self-stigma. The client’s panic attacks were eliminated and anxiety was reduced by cognitive-behavioral therapy that targeted his concealment of his sexual orientation and that increased his active coping. By facing his fears of the negative impact of self-disclosure of his sexual orientation, Felix improved his mental health and relationships with others. A positive four-month follow-up interview is described.