Following the publishing of “Introduction to Sexual and Gender Diversity for Mental Health Professionals,” it was necessary to expand the conversation around it, and to allow professionals the space to discuss its contents with a critical lens.

In July, alQaws organized 3 events in Ramallah, Jerusalem, and Shefa-'Amr to discuss the guidebook among mental health professionals. Tens of therapists, educators, and social workers attended the events.

(Jerusalem Discussion Circle)

In Ramallah, head of the Psychosocial Resource Center at the Palestine Red Crescent Society Fathy Flefel and counselor Fida’ Elayan led the discussion. In Jerusalem, clinical psychologist and head of the Arab Psychological Association Yoad Ghanadry-Hakim opened the evening with a brief introduction. In Shefa-‘Amr, developmental psychologist Hanan Khamees-Zo’abi and psychologist Tony Haddad engaged participants in a productive conversation. The last two events were organized with the Arab Psychological Association.

(Shefa-'Amr Event)

Many important topics were tackled during these discussion events, including the role of therapists and the relationship with the client. These conversations encourage alQaws to keep creating accessible knowledge and to strengthen the organization’s relations with mental health institutions all over Palestine.