Evaluation of a Trans-Affirming Mental Health Care Workshop in a Clinical Training Setting

Abstract

Trans and gender diverse (TGD) people (those whose gender identity does not match their assigned sex at birth), experience discrimination as a result of transphobia and are at higher risk for mental and physical health difficulties, when compared to their peers. Discrimination by health care professionals, and lack of training pertaining to gender-affirmative health care, have further deterred TGD folks from seeking care they need. The objectives of this study were: to engage clinical psychology trainees, faculty, and staff, in a trans-affirming mental health care workshop, to evaluate the learner experience, and to evaluate the effectiveness of the workshop. Through a community collaboration with a charitable organization serving TGD individuals, Skipping Stone, a Trans-affirming Clinical Care Training Workshop was created. The workshop included online video modules and a two hour-in person session. Using a mixed methods approach, the workshop was evaluated. Almost all learners (95%) reported that the workshop changed their level of comfort in providing clinical care for TGD folks, 90% liked the blended approach, and 100% of learners “Agreed” or “Strongly Agreed” that the workshop taught them something new about the TGD community. Results from this study support a trans-affirming training model for those practicing in clinical psychology.