The Phenomenon of Minority Stress: Applying a Trauma-informed Lens to Working with LGBTQIA+ Individuals and Communities

The Phenomenon of Minority Stress: Applying a Trauma-Informed Lens to Working with LGBTQIA+ Individuals and Communities

Date: Thursday, September 17, 2026

Time: 5:00 p.m. – 8:15 p.m. ET

CEUs: 3 LGBTQ

Course Description

LGBTQIA+ individuals and communities continue to experience significant disparities in mental health, physical health, and overall well-being. While trauma is widely recognized as a contributing factor to these disparities, less attention is often given to the broader societal, systemic, and interpersonal forces that negatively impact health outcomes. Minority stress—a chronic experience of stigma, discrimination, and marginalization—plays a critical role in shaping the lived experiences of many LGBTQIA+ individuals.

This training explores the intersection of trauma, minority stress, and social work practice through a trauma-informed lens. Participants will examine gaps in historical research and discourse related to LGBTQIA+ populations and gain a deeper understanding of how minority stress contributes to health and wellness disparities. Emphasis will be placed on applying trauma-informed care principles while centering social work values, including recognizing client strengths, resilience, and community empowerment.

Through discussion and practical application, attendees will learn strategies for supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals, families, and communities in ways that promote healing, affirmation, and social justice.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:

1. Develop working definitions of trauma and minority stress.

2. Identify gaps in research related to trauma-informed care and LGBTQIA+ populations.

3. Formulate a rationale for applying key trauma-informed care models when working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and communities.

4. Identify effective strategies for clinical intervention, support, empowerment, and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ individuals and communities.

Topics Covered

• Understanding trauma and minority stress

• Health and wellness disparities within LGBTQIA+ communities

• Historical and contemporary barriers to care

• Trauma-informed approaches to LGBTQIA+ practice

• Strengths-based and resilience-focused interventions

• Clinical support and empowerment strategies

• Family and community systems considerations

• Social justice and advocacy in practice

NASW Code of Ethics Focus

• 4.02 Discrimination

• 5.01 Integrity of the Profession

• 3.01 Supervision and Consultation

Register here.