LGBTQ+ – Issues/Questioning

BRIEF SUMMARY

Supporting students on the LGBTQ+ spectrum, as well as their allies, is critical in the role of the school counselor as often, these students are most at-risk of being marginalized (at home and/or school) and exhibiting symptoms of anxiety, depression, self-harm.  They are also disproportionaly at risk for completion of suicide.  The follow resources can greatly help school counselors support students of this demographic.

KEY POINTS

• Many resources exist to support LGBTQ+ students, families, and allies.
• It is critical to utilize the ASCA Code of Ethics, position statements, and in following your school’s policies when supporting LGBTQ+ students, advocating for change as necessary.

SHARED WISDOM

• School counselors may very well be the only means of support for an LGBTQ+ student; any support, even a listening ear and acceptance, can be pivotal.
• School counselors are in a unique and exciting position to advocate for the rights of LGBTQ+ students, families, and allies.

RESOURCES

• https://www.glsen.org/– national support for LGBTQ+ youth, allies, and families, as well as guidance on starting a GSA (Gay-Straight or Gender and Sexuality Alliance) at your school.
  • https://www.glsen.org/educate/resources/curriculum– resources for educators
  • https://www.glsen.org/educate/resources/lesson-plans– lesson plans
  • https://www.glsen.org/educate/professional-development/toolkits– professional development toolkits, including a Safe Space toolkit
• http://www.indianagsanetwork.org/– Indiana Gender and Sexuality Alliance (state-level support)
• https://www.glaad.org/– Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation
• https://www.pflag.org/
• https://www.thetrevorproject.org/#sm.00ycdnjl1bvqdin10o72hngcv2a1v– The Trevor Project- support for LGBTQ+ youth considering suicide; talk and text lines
• ASCA’s LGBTQ+ Position Statement: https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/PositionStatements/PS_LGBTQ.pdf
• ASCA’s Position Statement: Transgender and Non-Conforming Youth: https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/PositionStatements/PS_Transgender.pdf
• http://www.advocatesforyouth.org/publications/publications-a-z/2881-gender-expansive-students-at-higher-risk-for-suicidal-behavior

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