In this first module, we begin by answering the question: What does queering mental health care mean, and why is it so important? We will then review key identity terms and how individuals derive personal meaning from them. Finally, we will briefly introduce four guiding frameworks that help develop a holistic approach to improving mental health care for 2SLGBTQI people: Social Determinants of Health, Intersectionality, Minority Stress, and Trauma-Informed Care. These frameworks will be further explored in Module 2.

In this module, we will continue to explore the four guiding frameworks mentioned in module 1: the social determinants of health, intersectionality, minority stress, and trauma-informed care. While these models may not be wholly new to you, we will discuss them through a holistic lens that can help us better understand the causes and solutions to mental health disparities of 2SLGBTQI people.  

In this module, you will engage in deeper learning by creating safer mental health services for 2SLGBTQI people. You will explore the role of practicing cultural humility, adopting neurodiversity-affirming care, and using anti-racist/anti-oppressive approaches that contribute to a safer and more inclusive mental health care system.

In this final module, you’ll begin by exploring how the mental health care field has responded to the COVID-19 pandemic. How did the delivery of mental health care change during isolation challenges? What new strategies were adopted and are still being used today? What are some of the benefits and drawbacks of these new approaches?  

Then, we will discuss how these challenges impacted 2SLGBTQI people, such as the high cost of mental health care, proximity to mental health care supports, and limitations with technology. How can service providers mitigate these barriers on a client and systemic level? How can we pave a new road forward?