MHCCF Meeting - Exploring Relational Processes in Families of Gay Youth

MEETING AGENDA:

8:30-9 a.m. - Registration and Sign-in

9 a.m. - Announcements and Introductions

9:30 - 10:30 a.m. - Speaker

SPEAKER: Gregory S Meek, PhD, LMHC, NCC

Based on a qualitative research study conducted by the presenter, this session will focus on the lived experiences of four youth and their families.  Through the experiences of these families, attendees will gain not only an understanding of the social marginalization that many gay youth face on a daily basis, but also the ways in which family systems may impact this marginalization both positively and negatively.  The influence of social and familial experiences on the mental health and well-being of gay youth will be discussed.  Recommendations and strategies for counselors working with gay youth and their families will also be presented. 

1. Explore how societal norms and expectations influence individual self-perceptions as well as relational processes if families of gay youth.
2. Promote an understanding of how relational systems in families impact the mental health and well-being of gay youth.
3. Identify how traditional systems theory may or may not address the needs of gay youth and their families.
4. Provide culturally competent counseling approaches and techniques for working with gay youth and their families. 

Dr. Gregory S. Meek received his Ph.D. in Counselor Education from the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, VA.  He is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and a Nationally Certified Counselor.  With over 20 years of professional experience in college student affairs as well as family and mental health counseling, Dr. Meek is currently a faculty member at Troy University and maintains a successful private practice in Orlando, FL.  His professional and research interests include relational processes in families, gender and sexuality issues, and the integration of postmodern critical theory into the practice of counseling and counselor training.  Dr. Meek has presented research at several regional and professional conferences, including his dissertation research entitled Exploring Relational Processes in Families of Gay Youth.