LGBTQ+ Special Interest Group
Richard Espinoza, Psy.D.
[email protected]

The LGBTQ+ Special Interest Group (SIG) aims to provide a dedicated platform for education, training, and resources to better serve the needs of the LGBTQ+ community within Los Angeles County. Given the disproportionately high population of LGBTQ+ individuals in this area and the increasing legislative attacks on their rights and freedoms along with the subsequent disproportionate rate of mental health diagnoses LGBTQ+ persons live with, there is a critical demand for affirming psychotherapy and support. Our mission is to empower both LGBTQ+ and allied clinicians by offering comprehensive training to ensure competent and sensitive care for this marginalized population. By fostering a community of informed and supportive therapists, we strive to create an inclusive environment that champions the dignity and well-being of all LGBTQ+ individuals.

Given the current climate, where over 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills are being considered nationwide and the Human Rights Campaign has declared a state of emergency for LGBTQ+ persons in the United States, our efforts are timely and necessary. The attacks on the freedom and dignity of trans people and their families continue to escalate, with one-third of the country passing laws that criminalize and ban access to gender-affirming care. Our SIG would play a crucial role in the next stage of the fight for basic LGBTQ+ freedoms, aligned with the 2024 LACPA mission.

Goals
1. Provide comprehensive education and training for allied clinicians to enhance their competency in LGBTQ-affirmative psychotherapy.
2. Offer a supportive space for LGBTQ-identified therapists to share experiences, challenges, and strategies.
3. Advocate for the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals, raising awareness about the impact of discriminatory legislation and promoting inclusive practices within professional psychology