Imagine knowing at a young age that you are different. Imagine that you see your difference contrasted everyday in the relationships you grow up around. Imagine that your peers hurl insults defining how you are different. Imagine that the social and cultural institutions inform you that your difference is not acceptable. Imagine that you long to be with others who are also different, but don’t have a way to connect with them.
Looking back through the years, it is just as true today as in 2011 that when we ally ourselves with others accepting all gender and sexual preferences, the indicators of strong mental health rise. Yes, as far as we have come, we still have a way to go.
Talking with students about sexual orientation and gender identity can be uncomfortable. Students may be anxious and fear negative responses or prejudiced attitudes from school staff and students. This manual will help counsellors create an atmosphere where students are comfortable expressing themselves. It also provides information on assessments, developing specific treatment plans, and making appropriate referrals,
The January 2017 issue of the BCTF Teacher Magazine is a look back through 100 years with the magazine and BCTF. The articles are a great reminder of just how far we have come on so many issues that affect public education in British Columbia. In the most recent climate, where we are recognizing differences related to gender and sexual identity, the article by Joan Merrifield carries us back to the seventies before bringing us forward. We've come a long way.
At the BC School Counsellors conference last October 2016, one of our members was recognized for a lifetime commitment to advocacy for BC school counsellors.
 Congratulations to Connie Eastman for her many years devoted to counselling in BC schools. Connie has served as president and past-president of the BC School Counsellors Association. She remained on the executive after serving in those roles and began the BC Counsellor magazine. Connie was the magazine editor for many years and finally retired from the executive in 2015. Connie continues to work as a school counsellor, and has continued her work as an advocate through her role on numerous other committees at both the local and provincial level. BC School Counsellors are indebted to the work Connie has done, and thank her for her service.
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