Promoting Healthy Outcomes for LGBTQ Youth

This workshop aims to build the capacity of school counselors, nurses, psychologists and social workers to prevent risky behavior and to promote healthy outcomes for lesbian, gay, bisexual. transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth. The workshop will include information on current research and data regarding the unique health needs of LGBTQ youth, findings from APA’s nationwide needs assessment regarding knowledge and provision of services to LGBTQ youth, and a tailored model of preventive intervention. The workshop is built around active learning and includes small group activity, role-plays, video presentation, and lecture. Participants will assess personal strengths and biases in working with the population, gain an in-depth understanding of the school professional’s role in addressing health and mental health needs of LGBTQ youth, and identify action steps to take in the school setting. Special attention will be paid to the HIV prevention education needs of LGBTQ youth.