The workshop will discuss the role of the Social Worker in micro, macro, and mezzo levels, in working with clients in the LGBTQ community.  Learners will be able to identify the goals of practice, stressors and needs of the community, roles as a practitioner, and community resource building.  Focus will coordinate changes of LGBTQ individuals, families, and the elderly throughout the lifespan, utilizing a comprehensive approach; including assessment of youth, individual practice with families, and advocacy for the elderly.  

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify the ways in which LGBTQ human development and the environment affects the individual across the lifespan.

2. Analyze the positive and negative relationship between non-verbal and verbal message on the development of self-identity of LGBTQ individuals.

3. Improve critical thinking in resource development and working relationships with older LGBTQ adults.

4. Employ the Affirmative Approach in direct therapeutic practice with LGBTQ clients.

5. Link the media messages portrayed and their role in identity development of LGBTQ persons over the lifespan.

6. Compare identity development of LGBTQ persons through human life course development stages.

7. Strategize new concepts for creating a “new self” and meeting the needs of LGBTQ individuals in the midlife to end of life stage.