The SAFE Model: A Model for School Counselors Working With Queer-Identifying Students Exploring Their Identity Development

Literature Review: Queer students report less positive perceptions of school climate than their non-queer peers, and many do not feel a sense of belonging at school, contributing to higher rates of self-harm, bullying, homelessness, and school dropout. Many school counselors lack adequate training to effectively support queer-identifying students in their identity development. This gap in knowledge often stems from insufficient preparation and professional development at both the higher education and practitioner levels. Theoretical Framework for the SAFE Model: The SAFE Model is grounded in three foundational theories: Cass’s Identity Development Model (1979), Breakwell’s Identity Process Theory (2015), and Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Model (1979). Together, these theories provide practical frameworks for understanding human identity development. Principles, Uses, and Outcomes of the SAFE Model: The four tenets of the SAFE acronym outline how school counselors can support queer-identifying students: S–self-exploration and acceptance, A–access to school and community resources, F–facing and confronting heteronormativity, and E–external “outness” and the need for community. Using the SAFE Model, school counselors can help create environments where queer students are not merely tolerated but recognized as valued and integral members of the school community. Implications and Future Research: The model may foster a greater sense of belonging and create a safe environment for students to explore all aspects of their identity. The SAFE Model also provides a framework for advocating for queer students and may strengthen practitioners’ overall advocacy skills. Future research should examine the model’s effectiveness and gather data on its implementation in real-world school settings.