“Professional Development Is Really Key”: Experiences of School Counselors Engaging in Professional Development Focused on LGBTQ Youth

Abstract

This qualitative study explored the experiences and perspectives of eight school counselors who attended a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ)–related professional development event at a Midwestern University. The researchers identified three themes: (a) commitment and motivation, (b) learning from and connecting with others, and (c) critical takeaways. This article outlines implications for practice and future research regarding how school counselors can become more intentionally engaged in LGBTQ-inclusive professional development activities.