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.

• Identity: "Who am I?"
  
• Aspects of Gender and Sexual Identity
  
• Language and Terms
  
• Your Context
  
• Origins: Where Does it all Begin?
  
• Deconstructing the Binary View
  
• Gender and Sexual Identity Spectrum
  
• Minority Stress
  
• Vulnerability of LGBTQ Youth
  
• Vulnerability in Physical Health
  
• Developmental Guideposts
  
• Experiences of Being Different
  
• What's My Comfort Zone?

• Affirmative Approach
  
• Strategies to Support What's Needed
  
• The Coming Out Process
  
• The Transgender Journey
  
• Family Factors
  
• Family Developmental Phases
  
• Keys for Supporting Families
  
• Creating Safer Schools
  
• Planning for Your Context