Episode 5 | Affirming Care for LGBTQ+ Youth with Natasha L. Poulopoulos, PhD

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 Due to provider implicit biases, discrimination, and insufficient training, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) youth experience significant health disparities (e.g., increased suicidality, depression, and anxiety) compared to heterosexual cisgender peers. As more youth self-identify as sexual and gender minorities, and at younger ages, inclusive and affirming health care practices are needed to improve psychological and physical health outcomes for LGBTQ+ youth. The current presentation will focus on understanding and differentiating between terminology, clinical strategies to assess and discuss gender and sexual diversity with patients, and best clinical practices when working with LGBTQ+ individuals to establish an affirming care environment. Providers versed in LGBTQ+ health competencies and affirming care approaches can reduce the perpetuation of health disparities and stigmatization experienced by LGBTQ+ youth.