Hello Reader

Unless you live under a rock (which is cool) you have probably been to see, are going to see, or have at least witnessed all the hype around the Barbie movie. In 1993, my mother refused to buy me Barbies, believing they perpetuated anti-feminist ideals and could foster potential body image issues (I think she was onto something but don't worry, my aunt bought me one and I still played with them at friends' houses!). Fast forward 20 years, I watched in awe as the Barbie movie deftly and campily mocked heteronormative culture, while simultaneously exposing a staggering 12.8 million Americans to the social construction of gender roles that uphold the system of patriarchy. The movie not only drew double the number of attendees compared to the opening weekend of Oppenheimer, but it also sent an awakening shockwave across the nation, challenging harmful gender constructs on an unprecedented scale. We are no longer confined to preaching to the choir; we now preach to the millions who have visited the realm of BarbieLand. Click the button to read more!

Upcoming Events & Support Groups:

Ask a Trans Clinician: Supporting Clinicians Working With Trans and Gender Diverse Clients

Join M. Joyce-Anderson, LICSW (they/them) on 8/18 at 1-2pm EDT for “Ask a Trans Clinician,” a comprehensive Q&A tailored for clinicians seeking to enhance their expertise in working with transgender and gender diverse patients. This didactic session will delve into the multifaceted aspects of transgender experiences, equipping you with the knowledge and sensitivity to address the unique challenges and opportunities these individuals may encounter using case examples and questions brought forward by attendees. You'll gain insights into gender identity development, cultural considerations, mental health nuances, fostering a safe and inclusive environment and gender-affirming care, empowering you to build strong therapeutic alliances and better support your transgender clients on their journey to self-discovery and empowerment. Reduced fee and scholarship spots are available. If you would benefit from this support please email hello@genderspecialist.com. All participants that sign up will receive 30-day access to a recording of the event.

Trans-Generations: Supporting Grandparents of Trans and Gender-Expansive Youth

Many grandparents are looking for support and education in their journey of affirming and loving their transgender, nonbinary, or gender-expansive grandchild. That’s why I’m co-facilitating a new group, Trans-Generations, with Dr. Dani Rosenkrantz, PhD (she/they), specialist in Jewish LGBTQIA+ Mental Health, to do just that. Join us to connect with other grandparents in a facilitated, safe, and inclusive space where you can share experiences and gain valuable insights. Trans-Generations is open to grandparents regardless of prior familiarity with Judaism or the LGBTQ+ community. Four sessions are planned, but you are welcome to drop in less frequently. The first session is Thursday, August 17 from 1-2:30 p.m. ET.

Exploring Neuroqueer Identities Masterclass

Given the high prevalence of ADHD and Autism within the LGBTQ+ population, this one-hour workshop delves into the intersection of these identities. The workshop offers a brief primer on neuroqueer theory, which serves as a valuable framework for considering ADHD and autism as social identities that can be positively integrated into a person's overall identity. By the end of this session, attendees will have expanded their knowledge of the connections between neurodivergence and genderqueerness and be equipped with practical tools to offer support and promote inclusivity. It is pre-recorded so you can take it whenever you like!

Who is it for: clinicians, medical providers, educators, parents, neuroqueer folks, and anyone involved in supporting neuroqueer individuals.

SOMETHINGS Online LGBTQ+ Youth Mentorship Program

Mentors play a crucial role in the lives of LGBTQ+ youth, offering support, guidance, and a sense of community. Through mentorship, youth gain resilience, explore their identities, and navigate the challenges they face. SOMETHINGS' mentorship program provides a unique opportunity for LGBTQ+ youth to connect with mentors and experience the benefits of having a positive role model. While this isn’t therapy, it can help bridge the gap when care is hard to come by!

Take care,

Rebecca Minor, LICSW (She/Her)

Creator of the "How to Talk to Kids about Gender" course

​GenderSpecialist.com​