Many Canadians remain widely divided in their views of the GLBT population. Some believe that the GLBT population should have equal opportunities as heterosexuals and should have the right to same-sex marriage, the right to adopt children, access to the same tax benefits and healthcare, while others believe the opposite. The term GLBT refers collectively to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people and the term GLBT will be used in this article. Gays and lesbians are people who are attracted to and indulge in sexual relationships with people of the same sex, while bisexuals are people who are attracted to and indulge in sexual relationships with both men and women, and transgenders are people who are born male or female but they believe that they should live their lives as the opposite sex to which they were born (Horejsi & Sheafor, 2008). Although Canadians' views on the GLBT population are beginning to change, "this population still faces oppression, discrimination and internalized homophobia, and marginalization that can result in poor physical, emotional and social well-being" ( Morrow, 2004).While heterosexuals are surrounded by positive role models and an abundance of images regarding sexual expression, the GLBT population may struggle to find support and positive images, especially when their communities lack resources such as gay-straight alliances and visible GLBT role models. GLBT individuals must overcome the internalization of homophobia, much of which stems from the anti-gay message received in a variety of institutions such as religious affiliations, schools, and human services will discuss three social work concepts that are important when dealing with the GLBT population. As a social worker I...... middle of paper ......007). Psychology, a journey (2nd ed.). Toronto: Thomson Nelson Cournoyer, R.B. (2008). The Social Work Skills Workbook (5th Edition). Canada: Ontario Crisp, C., & McCave, E. (2007). Gay affirmative practice: A model for social work practice with gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgenders. Retrieved September 29, 2010, from http//vnweb.hwilsonweb.comDunn, AM (2002).Culture Competence and the Primary Care Provider.Journal of Pediatric Health Care, Volume 16, May/June 2002, p 105-111.Horejsi, C and Sheafor, B. (2008). Techniques and guidelines for social work practice (8th edition). Boston: New YorkIvey, M., & Ivery, A., (2008). Essentials of intentional interview counseling in a multicultural world (3rd ed.). Belmont: USA Srivastava, H., R. (2006) Clinical cultural competence. Retrieved September 28, 2010, from http://ceris.metropolis.net