LGBTIQA+ children are at high risk for depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. LGBTIQA+ children in families with accepting attitudes and behaviours towards theme have significantly decreased risk and better overall health in adulthood.
Specific caregiver behaviours, such as advocating for the child and supporting gender expression can guard against depression, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation. In this course we will explore the role of play therapy in the treatment of gender expansive children, adolescents, and their caregivers as supports in health identity development and relational attachment.
Description:
OPD Points: 5
Key Learning Objectives / Outcomes:
Presenter / Provider:
Mandi Melendez, LMFT-S, LPC-S, RPT-S
Presenter Qualifications:
Mandi Melendez, LMFT-S, LPC-S, RPT-S is the co-founder of the Nurture Family Counseling, a group therapy practice with locations around Austin, Texas, USA. She holds a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy with an emphasis on Play Therapy from Texas State University, as well as a Master of Arts in Interpersonal Communication from the University of Texas at Austin.
Mandi has shared her passion for the power of play therapy with trainings in Europe, Asisa, North America and the Caribbean, and serves as the Clinical Editor for APT’s Play Therapy Magazine.
