Gender and sexuality are central features of identity development in adolescence. When a person's internal experience of gender and/or sexuality does not match with what would typically be expected based on their external appearance, it can cause great distress and difficulty. Caregivers can also struggle with knowing how best to respond and support youth in these situations. Participants of this workshop will develop an awareness and understanding of what this experience can be like, and how to create more accessible and welcoming environments for lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender, two-spirited, transsexual, queer and questioning individuals.

Length

2 day version
The two day training provides a comprehensive overview of the topic and offers an opportunity to explore one's own setting and response.  Strategies addressing a wide range of settings and situations will be explored.

1 day version
The one day workshop covers much of the same overview as the two day version, with focus more specifically on key strategies that apply across settings.

Target Audience

This is an introductory-intermediate level workshop intended for counselors, teachers, social service and health care professionals, school administrators, youth care workers and anyone seeking a better understanding of ways to create more accessible and welcoming environments for LGBTTQ youth.

Method of Delivery

Lecture, video, personal reflection, case study review and small group discussion