Identity Pleasure: Data and Workshop

ABOUT

1) I define what I call identity pleasure (positive feelings related to identity) and describe a few studies I have done on the topic and briefly summarize findings

2) I provide personal reflection questions for introspection (e.g., What are some ways you experience identity pleasure in your life?)

3) We break up into small groups to discuss further questions (e.g., How might we support each other in providing equitable access to identity pleasure?)

4) We talk as a large group about any insights gained from introspection and small group discussion, and I answer any remaining questions

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Will Beischel (they)

Meet the Presenter:

Dr. Will Beischel (they) is an Assistant Professor of Social Psychology at Loyola University Chicago. They have published 20+ articles in psychology’s top identity and sexuality journals. Their research aims to take lessons from queer theory, trans studies, and community expertise to build transformative psychological knowledge about identity and sexuality. The three major branches of their research include: 1) the positive aspects of identity and LGBTQ+ life, such as euphoria and queer joy, 2) methodological innovations to expand understandings of identity and sexuality, and 3) how people’s identities are shaped developmentally by their oppressive and liberatory social experiences.

Rave Reviews from Previous Conferences

I learned more from this conference than I did from most of my grad school classes. As a queer nonbinary provider working with primarily queer and gender nonconforming folks, it is so important to hear from others who share these identities in how to best support and affirm my clients. I also really appreciated the letter writing training as it has allowed me to help so many clients access affirming care. I look forward to attending this upcoming year and continuing to listen and learn!

Every presenter was amazing and brought a wealth of information and experience to each session. I continue to use what I learned in the conference and in Van’s other trainings as a jumping off point to do my own self work and to better support my clients and the community. I've gotten so much out of previous conferences and I can't wait to attend this year's!

Attending this conference was a game-changer for me. It took me from being informed to embracing an affirming lens and practice, and I couldn't be more grateful for the experience. If you're looking to level up your understanding and support of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, trust me, the Do Something Identity(ies) conference is where it's at. You won't regret it!

As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and addiction specialist, I was blown away by the quality of content and selection offered during the conference. The robust selection of top-notch presenters was impressive and the topics covered a wide array of timely and relevant material. I would strongly encourage anyone working in any helping profession to attend this conference if at all possible. It is exactly this kind of content and presentation that is needed in order for us to heal ourselves and those around us.