Creating Welcoming Environments for LGBTQIA+ Youth

Join NCA to learn about Creating Welcoming Environments for LGBTQIA+ Youth on Thursday, May 11, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. EDT. This one-hour webinar, the second in our new series on diversity, equity, and inclusion, will be presented by Al Killen-Harvey, LCSW.

Issues around sexual orientation and/or gender identity are often left unexplored in our child-serving organizations and agencies. Research shows us, however, that LGBTQIA+ youth often face increased levels of risk of harm by others and to themselves. Learn how to effectively engage this underserved population through conscious use of language, self-reflection, and inclusive organizational policies. The discussion will include an overview and identification of the physical and emotional stressors experienced by this population. There will also be an exploration of the cultural and institutional dynamics that reinforce this abuse. A strength-based approach will be emphasized throughout the discussion within an environment that will support individuals to explore their own thoughts, beliefs, and values as it relates to this population.

This video can be used to assist in meeting NCA Standards as it relates to Diversity, Equity and Access. Users must be logged in to access training.

Al Killen-Harvey, LCSW

Co-Founder

The Harvey Institute, Inc.

AlKillen-Harvey has worked at the Chadwick Center at Rady Children’s Hospital forover 28 years as a practicing trauma treatment therapist, clinical improvement coordinator,reflective supervisor, and trainer. A licensed clinical social worker, heis also the co-founder of The Harvey Institute, a training and consultationcompany whose mission is improving health care outcomes through the integrationof sexual health. Their work received the 2022 “William Friedrich LecturesSeries” Award given by the Mayo Clinic for its’ innovative work in bridging thegap between sexual trauma and sexual health.

Hecurrently serves on the advisory boardsof the Children’s Advocacy Centers of California and is theco-chairperson of the Sexual Health subcommittee for the National ChildTraumatic Stress Network (and previously served as co-chairperson of its’Cultural Consortium). He has served as an expert witness for the United StatesArmy and the San Diego District Attorney’s Office in the prosecution of sexualabuse cases. He is also a recipient of the Community Collaborators Award givenby the San Diego LGBT Center.