Arlene Istar Lev, LCSW, CASAC

On May 15th, 2009, Arlene Istar Lev will present her original work steeped in systems theory, feminist philosophy, and narrative concepts. Via the lens of transgender experience, we will learn ways to transform a family’s sense of betrayal, secrecy, fear and shame to generative bonding, acceptance and loyalty. Conference participants can count on stretching our capacity to hold and honor difference and diversity in all of the families we encounter.

Families are impacted by gender-variance in numerous ways, yet the family therapy field has remained virtually silent on the impact of transgender, transsexual, and gender non-conforming behavior within the family matrix. The complex issues facing families coping with gender transitions is similar in some ways to coming out lesbian, gay, or bisexual; however, gender identity struggles also commonly involve intense body dysphoria and physical transitions that must take place out of the closet and in the public eye.

Assisting transgender people in self-actualization requires not only an understanding of gender identity but also a systemic focus on family dynamics.

Participants of this all day conference will develop an understanding of:

• complex issues impacting families with a transgender, transsexual, or gender non-conforming member and the role of the therapist in creating an atmosphere of support for all family members
• the medical model of transsexualism, the Standards of Care of treatment, and the limitations of these models from a family systems perspective
• how advocacy and community-centered models often further alienate family members, leaving gender-variant people isolated from sources of support

Date: May 15, 2009
Time: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Location: Hunter College School of Social Work
129 East 79th Street
New York, NY 10075

For more information, or to register, contact:
Rebecca Kucsan
212-879-4900, ext 140
rkucsan@ackerman.org

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