In this workshop, you will learn the competencies that will allow you to support and serve children and adolescents who are gender-questioning, as well as those who identify as transgender and non-binary. We will explore the ethics surrounding the treatment of gender dysphoria in young people, as well as the psychological issues faced by children and adolescents who are questioning their gender. We will discuss the challenges faced by young gender-diverse clients as well as their parents. You will also learn how to write referral letters for youth who are seeking medical intervention to address their gender dysphoria.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:
- Define the various identities that exist under the umbrella of “gender diversity,” including transgender, non-binary, and gender questioning
- Assess for gender dysphoria in children and adolescents
- Learn how to provide a referral letter for medical interventions related to gender dysphoria
- Implement strategies that best serve young clients who are questioning their gender as well as those who identify as transgender or non-binary.
Syllabus:
Objective #1: Understanding Gender Diversity and Identity
- Define key terms: transgender, non-binary, genderfluid, agender, bigender, genderqueer, two-spirit
- Clarify distinctions between gender identity, gender expression, sex assigned at birth, and sexual orientation
- Recognize the broad spectrum of identities that fall under the gender-diverse umbrella
- Explore how children and adolescents may express or question their gender identity
Objective #2: Assessing Gender Dysphoria
- Understand gender variance as distinct from pathology
- Review DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for gender dysphoria in children, adolescents, and adults
- Assess duration, consistency, insistence, and persistence of gender identity
- Explore social and environmental stressors contributing to dysphoria and emotional distress
Objective #3: Treatment Approaches and Clinical Strategies
- Emphasize client-centered, developmentally appropriate approaches
- Address the importance of parental support and psychoeducation
- Manage therapy expectations and provide space for identity exploration
- Assess the role of internalized homophobia or transphobia in identity development
- Understand and rule out “rapid-onset gender dysphoria”
Objective #4: Supporting Parents and Caregivers
- Recognize common parental concerns and fears about gender identity
- Support parents through grief, guilt, fear of social stigma, and intrafamily conflict
- Help families navigate cultural, religious, and societal influences on gender norms
- Offer tools to foster a supportive home and community environment
Objective #5: Creating an Affirming Clinical Environment
- Use inclusive intake paperwork with open-ended gender and pronoun questions
- Foster physical safety and visibility through affirming office design (e.g., restroom options, waiting areas)
- Employ affirming language and curiosity when discussing identity with young clients
- Normalize fluidity and exploration in child and adolescent development
Objective #6: Navigating the Transition Process
- Understand types of transition: social, medical, and legal
- Support social transitioning in home, school, and community settings
- Explain puberty blockers and their physical, emotional, and developmental impacts
- Discuss masculinizing and feminizing hormone therapy and surgical options
Objective #7: Addressing Mental Health Risks and Protective Factors
- Recognize high rates of suicidality, self-harm, and mental health issues among transgender youth
- Promote protective factors such as family acceptance, affirming environments, and peer support
- Validate identity while building coping skills for navigating stigma and discrimination
Objective #8: Writing Referral Letters for Medical Interventions
- Understand the clinician’s role in gender assessments and referrals
- Follow WPATH guidelines for documentation and informed consent
- Gather clinical history, identity development, and readiness for medical intervention
- Include details on family support, emotional impact, treatment understanding, and transition goals
Tools, Resources, and Continued Education
- Provide access to supportive organizations like PFLAG
- Share affirming literature, workbooks, and teen-centered guides
- Offer video and online content to educate clients and families
- Encourage further clinician training on gender-affirming care and ethical practice
Social workers completing this course receive 3 General Skill Building asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 3 General Skill Building continuing education training.
Instructor: Dreya Blume, LCSW
Recording Date: September 17, 2024
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 3hrs General continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com