Gender Expansive Services
Youth present with a range of normal human sexuality needs, related to sexual orientation and gender identity expression (SOGIE). These range from typical developmental questions and confusion to transgender identity. The staff are trained in affirmative therapy approaches to support youth to assess needs and ensure that the youth feels safe. This includes providing youth with the appropriate bedroom and bathroom adjustments based upon how the youth define their gender. These needs are identified prior to admission and assessed on an ongoing basis with the entire treatment team — Camino a Casa interdisciplinary staff, the youth, family members, and the insurance provider. Those youths who present additional risk factors, including a history of elopement, substance abuse, sexually reactive behavior, and hopelessness have individualized treatment plans that provide additional interventions designed to reduce risk and increase awareness SOGIE issues.
All youth are eligible to participate in our My-Dentity group, which is an optional therapeutic group with a focus on exploring SOGIE. Because we understand the importance that family plays in the stability and well-being of the youth we serve, all efforts are made to maintain ongoing contact and communication with those important to them. This is done through phone communication, facilitating visits, inviting families to important celebrations, FEAT activities, family therapy, and facilitating youth involvement in their community of origin. In addition, to the work we do internally to support our special populations, we also engage community partners who specialize in these populations.
