LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Gender Affirming Care

The CarePlus Foundation is pleased to announce our 2023 Annual Educational Conference, “LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Gender Affirming Care,” featuring Ryan Sallans, MA, Dr. Joe Kort, Ph.D, and CarePlus’ very own Jen Velten, MA, LPC, ACS, CCTP, DRCC, on Thursday, April 13, 2023, at Bergen Community College’s Ciccone Theatre in Paramus, NJ.

Understanding the impact of prejudice and stigma surrounding identifying as a sexual and gender minority requires action on every level: personal, professional and social. This conference is designed to provide a deeper understanding of identity development about orientation, gender, and forms of expression. Through defining terminology, exploring identity development and pinpointing present societal barriers, our speakers will assist the audience in breaking down misconceptions about what it means to be LGBTQ+.

Ryan Sallans is an inspirational transgender speaker and author specializing in inclusion, diversity, and healthcare. Over the last 20 years, Ryan has worked in the fields of eating disorder recovery, sexual orientation, and gender identity development. Dr. Joe Kort specializes in sexual identity issues, LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapy, and other areas involving sexual orientation. Jen Velten, MA, LPC, ACS, CCTP, DRCC, the Director of Trauma Services at CarePlus, will also provide context and guidance on engaging youth, families and providers to create a safe, inclusive space.