The Double Rainbow: The Intersection of Gender Identity and Neurodivergence – In Person Training
Ellen Merker, M.S. LPC
Overview: Research has shown that rates of LGBTQIA+ identification in the neurodivergent community are higher than in the general population, but little is done to provide increased and inclusive supports to them or to better understand their unique needs. And given trans and gender non-conforming youth are at a much higher risk of depression, anxiety, and suicide, it is important for caregivers to have tools to assess and accommodate different needs and create inclusive environments at home, in the community, at work, and in school. We will discuss current research on intersections of neurodivergence and gender identity, the impact on mental health and safety, understanding different terminology, and identifying concrete strategies to build more inclusive, safe, and empathic supports.
Objectives:
- Identify terms related to sexual orientation and gender identity
- Understand the research and faults of the research regarding neurodivergence and gender identity
- Identify the increased risk factors for overlapping intersections, including mental health needs and safety
- Identify strategies for supporting LGBTQIA+ Neurodivergent youth and adults
- Explore your own values and reflect on how they may impact your support of neurodivergent LGBTQIA+ communities.
This training meets continuing education requirements for social workers as prescribed by the Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing Chapter MPSW 19.
Registration Change: All trainings occurring after May 15, 2026 will be processed through a new online system which will require payment via credit/debit card at the time of registration. We will no longer be issuing invoices for training registrations. If you are a caregiver who is wanting a CLTS plan to cover the registration fee, email Michael Truman at mltruman@wisc.edu to coordinate this process. Do not register here.
Registration closes Tuesday, December 1 at 4:00 PM.
About the Presenter:
Ellen Merker, M.S. LPC, founding director of Heart Consulting LLC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in trauma therapy for kids, teens, and adults with developmental disabilities. She received her Master’s in Rehabilitation Psychology from UW–Madison, and has been working with neurodivergent kids, teens, and adults in various roles for 15 years. Ellen uses neurodivergent affirmative, sex-positive, and trauma-informed approaches in all work. In addition to trauma therapy, Heart Consulting also works to reduce gendered violence against people with developmental disabilities through education and training. Ellen also has extensive speaking experience, and has presented at conferences including Wisconsin Human Trafficking Conference, WI Planned Parenthood, National Project Search Conference, Wisconsin Reproductive Health Conference, and the Circles of Life Conference.
Community Outreach Wisconsin and the Waisman Center value inclusion and access for all participants and are pleased to provide reasonable accommodations for this event. Please contact Michael Truman at mltruman@wisc.edu to make a reasonable accommodation request. Requests must be submitted by November 19, 2026.