Many gay and lesbian clients feel that they must instruct their social worker about what it is like to be gay or lesbian. This workshop is designed for non-lesbian and gay social workers who want to gain cultural competence in working with this population. The facilitator is a gay social worker who uses didactic, experiential and case study methods to help participants feel confident in working with lesbian and gay clients.

Learning Objectives:

This excellent and easy to listen to course provides a well-rounded yet in-depth overview of a variety of theories, concepts, values and ethical considerations for anyone(professional or lay person) interested in gaining a better understanding of the multifaceted issues impacting Gay & Lesbian clients. Dr. Joe Dooley colorfully and sensitively weaves individual case examples with overarching socio-cultural considerations to illustrate the developmental stages of expression in being a Gay or Lesbian client.

After listening to the program the student will be able to identify:

1. Sexuality and its different dimensions:

• Biological

• Gender

• Sexual orientation

• Social role in society

2. The “Coming Out” process, a developmental stages model

3. Examining our own resources/language/understanding re: “Coming Out” as we help a Lesbian or Gay client

4. Developing Cultural Competence in working with Gay and Lesbian clients

Faculty:

Dr. Joe Dooley, PhD, LCSW

Joe Dooley, Ph.D., LCSW, is an associate professor for the Social Work Department of Mount Mary College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  He is also a visiting assistant professor for the School of Social Work, UW-Madison. He earned his Ph.D. in clinical social work at Loyola University in Chicago. Before entering academia, Joe was a clinical social worker for twenty years in a wide variety of mental health programs.  His private practice focuses on work with LGBT clients.