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Beyond the Binary: Fundamentals & Best-Practices for Supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ Youth

Physical and mental health inequities persist for 2SLGBTQ+ young people locally and nationally. These inequities result from systemic discrimination and rejection from others. Accepting and affirming adults save lives. According to the Trevor Project’s 2019 National Survey of LGBTQ Youth Mental Health, LGBTQ youth who report having at least one accepting adult were 40% less likely to report a suicide attempt in the last year. Trusted adults, including mental health clinicians, social workers, case managers, and educators, are uniquely positioned to support 2SLGBTQ+ young people. This workshop will equip participants with fundamental information and best practices for supporting 2SLGBTQ+ youth in various settings.

Learning Objectives: By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:
• Explain two (2) contributing factors leading to health inequities for
2SLGBTQ+ youth
• Identify the differences between sex, gender identity gender expression,
and sexual orientation
• Describe the importance of accepting and affirming adults for 2SLGBTQ+
youth
• Explain at least four (4) key principles for supporting 2SLGBTQ+ youth
• Identify five (5) strategies for fostering affirming and inclusive environments
• Apply strategies for supporting 2SLGBTQ+ youth to commonly
encountered scenarios
• Commit to implementing at least one (1) new strategy with the youth they
serve