From Mud to Lotus: Integrating Critical Social Work and Relational-Cultural Approaches in LGBTQ+ and Asian American Mental Health: LIVE WEBINAR

This training provides a holistic approach to addressing the mental health needs of Queer and Asian American communities. By integrating the Lotus metaphor from Buddhism with key theoretical frameworks, this session provides a nuanced perspective on mental health that combines cultural and historical contexts and contemporary therapeutic practices. The session critiques the Mental Health Industrial Complex, revealing systemic challenges faced by these marginalized groups. This is further contextualized through an intersectionality lens. The training also integrates Asian Critical Theory and Queer Psychology with Interpersonal Neurobiology, emphasizing the importance and value of a strong therapeutic connection, attunement, and empathy. Participants will understand the importance of balancing symptom management alongside relational growth. Anti-oppressive practices and relational-cultural therapy will also be identified for clinical applications with queer and Asian American

populations.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze the impact of the Mental Health Industrial Complex on the mental health of LGBTQ+

and Asian American communities, opening a deeper understanding of systemic challenges and

historical contexts.

• Integrate the Lotus metaphor from Buddhism with Asian Critical Theory and Queer Psychology

to develop a holistic therapeutic approach that balances symptom management with relational

growth for queer and Asian American clients.

• Apply principles of relational-cultural therapy and critical social work to enhance therapeutic

connections, attunement, and empathy in clinical settings, focusing on anti-oppressive practices

and their relevance to LGBTQ+ and Asian American populations.

Presented by: Benjamin H. Nguyễn, MSW, LCSW, CPH

Continuing Education Units: 2 CEUs

This training is approved for continuing education by the boards listed here as well as by the Nevada Certification Board for PRSS(-S).

*This course has been approved by CASAT, School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Reno, as a NAADAC Approved Education Provider, for 2 CEUs. NAADAC Provider #98165. CASAT, University of Nevada, Reno is responsible for all aspects of its programming.

*This course applies to the following Counselor Skill Groups as defined by NAADAC: Clinical Intake and Screening, Clinical Assessment, Treatment Plan, Counseling Services, Discharge and Continuing Care, and Legal, Ethical and Professional Development.

Presentation materials are not for reproduction or distribution without specific written authorization. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in our courses are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of CASAT.

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