Ethical Consideration in Working with the LGBTQ+ Population (3 HR) Syllabus

I. Introduction and Objectives

• Clarify differences between affirming and competent practice
• Identify ethical considerations relevant to LGBTQIA+ clients
• Explore ethical dilemmas when working with transgender and non-gender-conforming individuals
• Learn to recognize microaggressions before they negatively impact clients

II. Understanding Affirming vs. Competent Practice

• Review of Adam A. Sauceda’s framework: Unaffirming, Neutral, Novice, Friendly, Affirming, Competent
• Define what “competent” means in clinical practice
• Emphasize the importance of inclusive and non-binary perspectives
• Understand intersectionality, supervision, and countertransference

III. Components of Competent Practice

• Create safe spaces for gender and sexual identity discussions
• Avoid binary assumptions in gender and sexuality
• Seek consultation and ongoing education on non-normative identities and practices
• Maintain client-centered focus and promote informed decision-making

IV. Cultural Competence and Affirmative Frameworks

• Define cultural competence, awareness, sensitivity, and humility
• Address the Minority Stress Model and intersectional identities
• Review NASW standards and implications for LGBTQIA+ practice
• Understand the difference between knowledge acquisition and applied practice

V. Affirmative Practice Principles

• Embrace gay-affirmative social work values: validation, support, self-determination
• Recognize stigma within the LGBTQIA+ community (e.g., toward bisexual, transgender individuals)
• Apply the strengths perspective, emphasizing empowerment and positive identity development

VI. Knowledge Base for LGBTQIA+ Practice

• Master LGBTQIA+ terminology and affirming language
• Use and respect clients’ pronouns and identity labels
• Understand demographics, symbols, historical events, and legal milestones
• Familiarize yourself with relevant oppression policies and current discriminatory laws
• Identify local and national resources for client support

VII. Ethical Attitudes in Practice

• Identify the impact of practitioner homophobia and internalized biases
• Understand how attitudes influence treatment outcomes and transference
• Reflect on whether clients are best served through referral or direct services
• Address the ethics of religious objections vs. the mandate to do no harm

VIII. Affirming Clinical Skills

• Create inclusive, safe environments
• Assess and support clients through the coming out process
• Explore presenting issues within intersectional and cultural contexts
• Engage in family inclusion and refer to supportive resources
• Participate in continuing education on LGBTQIA+ issues

IX. Ethical Care for Transgender and Non-Gender-Conforming Clients

• Highlight the need for trans-competent care and cultural sensitivity training
• Follow NASW ethics on competence and social justice
• Understand gender transition terminology and affirm clients’ identities
• Address micro and macro-level advocacy in practice and policy

X. Working with Parents of Transgender Youth

• Recognize grief, fear, and confusion in families and reframe these responses
• Offer education on transition processes, safety concerns, and legal challenges
• Promote family acceptance to improve mental health outcomes for transgender youth
• Encourage development of advocacy skills and provide tools such as “Safe Folders”

XI. Recognizing and Addressing Microaggressions

• Learn to spot heterosexist and transphobic terminology or assumptions
• Identify subtle biases and discomfort in practice
• Address denial of bodily autonomy and assumptions of pathology
• Commit to reducing harm through self-awareness and accountability

XII. Conclusion and Reflection

• Reaffirm commitment to ethical, inclusive, and affirming clinical practices
• Encourage ongoing learning, supervision, and advocacy
• Provide resources and references for further exploration