Chuck Stewart, Ph.D.
I’m always impressed by the professional work and activities conducted by LAGPA. I feel blessed to be able to work for such a worthwhile organization. This spring, we held two educational forums. On May 2, Dr. Lawrence Hedges conducted a workshop on “Managing High-Risk Professional Relationships.” Approximately twenty LAGPA members attended and received Continuing Education credits from APA. The workshop was well received, and, as always, Dr. Hedges impressed us all with his depth of knowledge and engaging teaching techniques. Dr. Hedges donated his time so the event was a fund-raiser for LAGPA. Thanks Dr. Hedges.
Then, on June 27, Tara Borelli, Esq., came to the home of LilianeQuon McCain and gave a wonderful speech and update on the marriage equality debate and litigation. She was extremely knowledgeable and could have easily devoted more hours to the topic. We were able to offer Continuing Education credits from APA for this event. How timely was the topic considering the recent changes in federal court. Tara donated her time and helped us raise funds. Thanks, Tara.
LAGPA has been very involved in engaging the various psychology organizations over the issue of marriage equality and training on LGBT issues. See Bruce Watkins’ article for details. I just want to add that we have hosted booths at ACPA, LA Pride, CPA, CAMFT and elsewhere. Staffing a booth is always fun. Please consider volunteering.
Just last Sunday was the annual pool party at the home of Liliane in Beverly Hills. In previous years, we co-hosted this event with the Southern California Lambda Medical Association (SCLMA) to great success. This year we decided to open up the event to the Lesbian and Gay Lawyer Association (LGLA). It seemed reasonable to the board to have all three groups interact since often physicians, therapists and attorneys have to work together with clients. All together, 170 people attended. Wow! Eddie Morgado catered and the food was spectacular. Thanks, Eddie and thanks Liliane. As an added bonus, Liliane’s awardwinning 1936 Bugatti arrived for all to view.
The 16th Annual LGBT Psychotherapy Conference is set for October 17 being held at Antioch University Los Angeles (located in Culver City) and co-hosted by the LGBT Specialization at Antioch. We have secured Alan Downs, Ph.D. as keynote speaker. His book, the Velvet Rage, is well regarded in helping those coming out. Antioch so graciously offered to underwrite his usual speaking fee. A “save-the-date” card has been mailed to almost 3,000 people. The conference brochure is receiving the final touches before it goes out. For the first time, you can register and pay for the conference at our website.
Speaking of our website, you may remember we bit the bullet last year to fully update our website. It costs almost $6,000 to make it fully functional with member sign-in and more. Now, LAGPA members have complete control and security concerning their online directory. We’ve also been much more aggressive about promoting the website.More than 12,000 unique visits are made each month to the website. Our members who have a directory listing report an increase in client referrals. Even our advertisers report increased foot traffic. I personally have an ad on the website and can attest that I’ve received hundreds of click-through to my website. Contact Chuck if you have any questions concerning the website.
Which brings up the topic of memberships. We no longer hold an annual membership drive as we used to in June/July. Instead, now you can register anytime through the website. For most of you, you will be receiving over the next few months an email reminder to renew. Please do so. We are very dependent upon memberships to continue funding our activities. Also membership gives you reduced rates for the conference and free admission to many of our socials. See you at our next event.
Have you ever thought about being on the board? Right after the conference will be board elections and we are always looking for interested people. LAGPA is extremely stable and drama free. Please don’t let past impressions influence your decision. The board helps guide the organization with many of the details left to paid professionals. Thus, the time commitment is minimal. So, show your support and join the board.
Chuck Stewart, Ph.D.
Executive Director • |
