The welcome project PA: lgbt+ mental health services, case management, and deiab competency training - the welcome project PA (wppa), will redesign and expand the following mental health programs…

The welcome project PA: lgbt+ mental health services, case management, and deiab competency training - the welcome project PA (wppa), will redesign and expand the following mental health programs for lgbt+ populations; the therapy program; support groups; the youth program; the diversity equity, inclusion, acceptance and belonging (deiab) competency training; and the healthcare best practices program for transgender, nonbinary, and intersex patients. Wppa's mental health therapy program uses evidence-based practices including the integration of best available evidence, clinical expertise, and patient values. Wppa will adopt a low cost/no cost model, providing affordable, and accessible mental health therapy services for members of the lgbt+ communities, thereby increasing wppa's caseload by 25+ new clients by the end of the year. Wppa's mental health therapy program will consist of two licensed and three pre-licensed, lgbt+ knowledgeable and trauma-informed therapists, who appreciate the experiences of the communities they serve. Wppa will provide mental health therapeutic services in-person and via a hipaa compliant telehealth platform as permitted by regulation. Wppa's support groups will redesign and implement therapist-led support groups to best serve the community needs. All support groups continue to be free of charge provide community, reduce isolation, and aid in the prevention of suicide. Wppa's youth program will serves teens, ages thirteen through fifteen, who identify as lgbt+, by providing community and support. The program will help lgbt+ youth build resilience to challenge negative thinking, build optimism, and understand the importance of connection. This group promotes understanding and respect for all through education, support, advocacy, creative expression, and friendship. Meetings are in person and will be facilitated by a therapist and supported by an intern and volunteers. Staff-led deiab competency training offerings such as lgbt+ inclusion and competency 101, 102, and allyship will be offered to schools, organizations, and faith communities. Wppa will expand its healthcare best practices program for transgender, nonbinary, and intersex patients. Led by wppa staff and a lgbt+ cohort, this initiative will work with doctors within local healthcare systems. Four new medical symposiums: one for doctors, and one for first, second, and third year medical students, will assist doctors and medical students in providing gender affirming care to patients.