PY732 Considerations and Counseling Approaches: the LGBTQIA+community (1 cr.)

This course provides an introduction to the life experiences and concerns often presented in counseling by clients who are exploring and/or identifying as being a part of the LGBTQIA+ community.  General concepts, ideas, and research to help clinicians work with clients in the LGBTQIA+ community will be reviewed. An emphasis is placed on healthy identity development and norms, protective and risk factors for mental health outcomes, and common presenting concerns. Students develop skills in LGBTQIA+ affirmative strategies to build positive therapeutic relationships, accurate assessment of strengths and needs, and treatment plans for individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community and their networks of support. The context of historical experiences and viewpoints relating to the LGBTQIA+ population are incorporated throughout the course.

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to do the following:

1. Apply accurate and respectful terminology to identities and experiences of individuals in this population, and to appreciate that terminology used by individuals and society may vary through time and throughout the general public. 
2. Identify models of healthy identity and intersectional identity development, coming out experiences, and gender transitions, as well as protective factors that predict positive mental health outcomes.
3. Analyze the impact various risk factors (microaggressions, homophobia, transphobia, bullying, familial rejection, institutionalized discrimination, and vicarious trauma) may have on mental health functioning of individuals and their common outcomes (homelessness, substance use issues, abuse, suicidality, etc.). 
4. Create treatment plans built upon affirmative strategies and client’s strengths in order to overcome common obstacles to adequate care.
5. Examine personal attitudes, culture, and biases that may influence the therapeutic relationship and outcomes.