Psychiatry has a history of conflating LGBTQ identities with mental illness and has, therefore, contributed to the stigma and discrimination faced by people who identify as LGBTQ. This has had consequences in terms of the mental health of LGBTQ-identified individuals as well as their access to appropriate mental health care. While “homosexuality” is no longer included as a diagnosis within the DSM, controversy continues to surround the inclusion of gender dysphoria within the DSM-5 with many arguing that this diagnosis should be removed from the DSM because the diagnosis pathologizes transgender identities, while others believe it should remain in the DSM to ensure continued access to appropriate medical treatment (eg. access to hormones and/or gender-affirming surgeries) for people who identify as transgender. This talk will review the terminology associated with trans* identities, emphasizing diversity within trans* communities. Specific mental healthcare needs and disparities within trans* communities will be reviewed. Barriers to care for trans-identified individuals will be discussed, as will practical ways in which these barriers can be addressed to create or maintain a mental health practice/office space that is affirming to people who identity as trans* (and/or LGBTQ).
Learning Objectives
Improve understanding of terminology related to individuals who identify as trans* and the diversity within trans* communities
Gain knowledge regarding some of the specific mental healthcare needs of trans* individuals
Develop awareness of the barriers to care for trans-identified communities
Increase knowledge of ways to improve access to care for trans-identified individuals
Gain practical skills in creating/maintaining an office space/mental health practice that is affirming of LGBTQ+ identities (how to be an ally)
