Overview:
Research has shown that rates of LGBTQIA+ identification in the neurodivergent community are higher than in the general population, but little is done to provide increased and inclusive supports to them or to better understand their unique needs. And given trans and gender non-conforming youth are at a much higher risk of depression, anxiety, and suicide, it is important for caregivers to have tools to assess and accommodate different needs and create inclusive environments at home, in the community, at work, and in school. We will discuss current research on intersections of neurodivergence and gender identity, the impact on mental health and safety, understanding different terminology, and identifying concrete strategies to build more inclusive, safe, and empathic supports.
Objectives:
- Identify terms related to sexual orientation and gender identity
- Understand the research and faults of the research regarding neurodivergence and gender identity
- Identify the increased risk factors for overlapping intersections, including mental health needs and safety
- Identify strategies for supporting LGBTQIA+ Neurodivergent youth and adults
- Explore your own values and reflect on how they may impact your support of neurodivergent LGBTQIA+ communities.
Register Here $30
Training check in begins at 8:45 am.
Please notify Training & Consultation – comm.training@waisman.wisc.edu – if you are unable to attend. Cancellations made after 5:00PM the day prior to the training will be charged the full registration fee.
About the Presenter:
Ellen Merker, M.S. LPC, founding director of Heart Consulting LLC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in trauma therapy for kids, teens, and adults with developmental disabilities. She received her Master’s in Rehabilitation Psychology from UW-Madison, and has been working with neurodivergent kids, teens, and adults in various roles for 15 years. Ellen uses neurodivergent affirmative, sex-positive, and trauma-informed approaches in all work. In addition to trauma therapy, Heart Consulting also works to reduce gendered violence against people with developmental disabilities through education and training. Ellen also has extensive speaking experience, and has presented at conferences including Wisconsin Human Trafficking Conference, WI Planned Parenthood, National Project Search Conference, Wisconsin Reproductive Health
Conference, and the Circles
of Life Conference.
