This course explores the mental health challenges faced by individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other sexual minorities (LGBTQ+). It examines the psychological, social, and structural factors that contribute to mental health disparities within these communities. The course provides an in-depth understanding of stigma, discrimination, minority stress, and barriers to care. It also offers evidence-based, culturally responsive strategies to improve mental health services and outcomes for LGBTQ+ individuals.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the mental health disparities and risk factors affecting sexual minority populations.
  • Recognize the impact of stigma, discrimination, and minority stress on mental health.
  • Identify barriers to mental health care for LGBTQ+ individuals.
  • Explore affirmative and culturally responsive mental health care approaches.
  • Develop strategies to improve access, treatment, and support for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Module 1: Introduction to Sexual Minority Mental Health

  • Definitions and Identities Within the LGBTQ+ Spectrum
  • Overview of LGBTQ+ Mental Health Disparities
  • Intersectionality and Its Impact on Mental Health
  • The Role of Social Determinants in LGBTQ+ Mental Health

Module 2: Mental Health Disparities Among LGBTQ+ Populations

  • Common Mental Health Disorders in Sexual Minority Groups (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, etc.)
  • Suicide Risk and Self-Harm in LGBTQ+ Communities
  • Substance Use and Addiction Disparities
  • Mental Health in LGBTQ+ Youth, Adults, and Older Adults
  • LGBTQ+ Individuals with Disabilities and Neurodivergence

Module 3: Minority Stress, Stigma, and Discrimination

  • Minority Stress Theory and Its Psychological Effects
  • Internalized Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia
  • The Impact of Family Rejection and Social Isolation
  • Workplace Discrimination and Economic Stressors
  • The Role of Microaggressions in LGBTQ+ Mental Health

Module 4: Trauma and Victimization in LGBTQ+ Communities

  • The Effects of Hate Crimes and Violence
  • Sexual Trauma and Abuse in Sexual Minority Populations
  • The Psychological Impact of Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation
  • Experiences of LGBTQ+ Refugees and Asylum Seekers

Module 5: Barriers to Mental Health Care for LGBTQ+ Individuals

  • Lack of LGBTQ+-Affirming Mental Health Providers
  • Medical Mistrust and Historical Discrimination in Healthcare
  • Financial and Insurance Barriers to Mental Health Services
  • Underrepresentation of LGBTQ+ Issues in Mental Health Research

Module 6: Culturally Responsive and Affirmative Mental Health Care

  • Understanding LGBTQ+ Cultural Competence vs. Cultural Humility
  • Principles of LGBTQ+-Affirming Therapy
  • Trauma-Informed Care for LGBTQ+ Clients
  • Inclusive Language and Creating Safe Spaces in Therapy
  • Case Studies: Effective LGBTQ+ Mental Health Interventions

Module 7: Policy, Advocacy, and Systemic Change

  • Legal and Policy Frameworks Affecting LGBTQ+ Mental Health Care
  • The Role of Advocacy in Improving LGBTQ+ Mental Health Services
  • Expanding Access to LGBTQ+ Mental Health Support in Schools and Workplaces
  • Community-Based Interventions and Support Networks
  • Ethical Considerations in LGBTQ+ Mental Health Care

Module 8: Strategies for Improving Mental Health Care for LGBTQ+ Individuals

  • Implementing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Initiatives in Mental Health Services
  • Addressing Implicit Bias Among Mental Health Providers
  • Expanding Telehealth and Digital Mental Health Solutions for LGBTQ+ Clients
  • Peer Support and Community-Based Mental Health Initiatives
  • Developing LGBTQ+-Inclusive Training for Healthcare and Mental Health Professionals

Recommended Books

  • Meyer, I. H. (2003). Prejudice, social stress, and mental health in lesbian, gay, and bisexual populations: Conceptual issues and research evidence.Psychological Bulletin, 129(5), 674-697.
  • Bieschke, K. J., Perez, R. M., & DeBord, K. A. (Eds.). (2007). Handbook of counseling and psychotherapy with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender clients (2nd ed.).American Psychological Association.
  • Drescher, J. (2012). Ex-Gay research: Analyzing the scientific research on sexual orientation change.
  • Russell, S. T., & Fish, J. N. (2016). Mental health in lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth.Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 12, 465-487.
  • Herek, G. M. (2009). Sexual stigma and sexual prejudice in the United States: A conceptual framework.In Contemporary Perspectives on Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Identities (pp. 65-111). Springer.
  • Pachankis, J. E., & Goldfried, M. R. (2013). Clinical issues in working with lesbian, gay, and bisexual clients.Psychotherapy, 50(3), 356-359.
  • Healthcare providers (nurses, primary care physicians, healthcare administrators);
  • Social workers, community health workers, and public health professionals;
  • Educators, school counselors, and university support staff;
  • LGBTQ+ advocates and nonprofit organizations focused on mental health.

Entry Requirements:

This course is open to everyone, and you don’t need any previous knowledge or experience of the subject to attend.

Course Dates:

July 01 to August 30, 2025

(this course will be entirely online)

Apply by: June 15, 2025

Course Duration:

6-8 weeks, depending on your pace

Subject:

Mental Health & Well-being

Course Language:

English

Difficulty:

Introductory

Cost:

$240

What’s included:

  • Access your courses anytime, anywhere, with a computer, tablet or smartphone.
  • Digital certificate on successful completion of the course

Participants come from across the globe, including United States and Canada as well as from Europe, Africa, South and Central America, Oceania, South Asia, and the Middle East.