Know Who I Am! Gender Dysphoria and HIV

This presentation will provide an understanding of how gender dysphoria within young transwomen of color and gender non-conforming people can create a context of risk (mental health, substance use, and HIV). It will also discuss HIV prevention and substance use treatment strategies that have been developed within a culturally defined community of wellness approach combatting transphobia and racism amongst young adult transwomen of color. Finally, this session will explain that evidence-based and treatment models must be fluid, culturally respectful, cutting edge and current in their implementation to meet the mental health, HIV treatment and substance use prevention efforts of young, transwomen of color.