The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of the relationship between a gay male's low self-esteem and environmental oppression, thereby establishing guidelines for the counselor in directing the client toward a more positive gay identity. This document is divided into the following sections: (1) Initial Interview; (2) Theory of Rational-Emotive Therapy; (3) Cognitive Aspect of RE-T in Practice; (4) Irrational Beliefs and Environmental Oppression; and (5) Counseling Considerations. (Author/JLL)