Keystone Conference Youth Presenters

This year at the Keystone Conference we're doing a section of programming specific designed and talored towards transgendered youth, their familes, and their allies.

As announced on the Keystone Conference website (http://transcentralpa.org/keystone.htm) the trans-youth presenter line-up is as follows:

"Options For Medical Treatment Of Trans Youth"
by Dr. Richard Levine - Chief of Adolescent Medicine and Eating Disorders, Hershey Medical Center

The workshop will explore the medical care for transgender youth- including children teens and young adults. We will start with a didactic presentation with numerous case examples. We will then proceed to a discussion of the many complex medical, psychological and social issues that are involved. At the completion of this session the participant should be able to:
• Review the theories about the biological causes of transgender feelings and the controversies regarding the psychiatric criteria and diagnosis
• Describe evaluation of children, teens and young adults with transgender feelings
• Discuss the treatment options and protocols
Dr. Richard Levine is the Chief of the Division of Adolescent Medicine and Eating Disorders at Penn State- Hershey Medical Center. He is experienced in Trans-medicine and sees a number of children, adolescents and young adults for HRT and medical follow-up. He is pleased to accept any pediatric patients and patients in their teens and twenties for this medical care. He also see adults through age 50 for the medical management of an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia which can sometimes be present in Trans patients. His practice is located in a private office building across the street from the medical center in Hershey with easy access and privacy.

"Transgender Youth"
by Terri Jo Reese
Transgender youth are invisible in today’s society, and sociologists are trying to increase the visibility of these adolescents. Sociologists today are seeking insight into the lives of transgender youth in order to provide services to meet their growing needs. By transgressing gender norms during adolescence, transgender youth are drastically more susceptible to harassment and vulnerability. As more and more youth begin to identify as transgender, society should realize that these young and vulnerable individuals have needs. By learning and becoming aware of how transgender youth cope with their gender identity, research can ultimately educate society and assist transgender youths in facing the many obstacles they face during adolescence.

Teri Jo Reese of Georgia is a tran-ally and activist. She recently graduated from college with a bachelor's degree in sociology in May 2009. Teri Jo is a prospective graduate student hoping to engage in Transgender research with the intent of bringing about education and awareness.

"Unique Issues For Trans Youth"
by Dr. Michele Angello - Transgender Therapist and Certified Clinical Sexologist
Adolescence is tough enough without dealing with gender variance! Youth and the parents of gender non-conforming young people are invited to participate in this dynamic discussion about some of the systemic variables to consider when dealing with being trans and being a minor. Issues regarding dealing with doctors, schools, places of worship, relationships and extended family will be discussed during this workshop. You are invited to bring your own experiences as well as your questions.
Dr. Michele Angello works with gender variant youth and adults. She offers individual, group and family therapy, as well as corporate education and training on a variety of issues of sexuality and has presented internationally on her work with trans-youth and working with children of transitioning parents. She facilitates several monthly support groups for transgender adults, youth and parents. Dr. Angello is often called on to speak as an expert on transgender issues to universities, corporations and the media. She has appeared on Larry King Live, the Tyra Banks Show, and various documentaries. She base her practice in Paoli, PA.

"Young And Trans"
facilitated by Kelli MatthewsIn “Young and Trans”, we will address the following aspects and struggles unique to those transitioning at a young age:

--Adjusting to school/college during transition
--Coming out to parents
--Starting hormones, gaining consent from Parents/Guardians
--Sexuality as it relates to transition
--Any other issue that may be brought to attention

This is an open forum style workshop, where these issues and more can be talked about and shared by the facilitator and participants. Sharing our experiences with others helps BOTH people. Sharing is NOT mandatory, however is encouraged.