The American Psychiatric Association (APA) will be issuing a new version of it's compendium of mental disorders, the Diagnostic and Statistical Reference Manual rev.5 (DSM), in 2013. The proposed revisions have recently been released, and the APA is taking public comment until April 20, 2010.

Many of the diagnosis included in the DSM pathologize gender diversity and result in harm to transgender people, yet many transgender people argue for continued inclusion. We will explore what the specific problems are with the current edition, how we can improve it, and how to move beyond the current model of being a mental illness towards one that affirms our identities as healthy. (To stay up to date on the latest developments, please go to: http://dsm.ifge.org)

Denise Leclair is the Executive Director of the International Foundation for Gender Education, a non-profit organization whose mission is promoting acceptance for transgender people everywhere through education. In her work with IFGE, Ms Leclair leads educational programs around the country on transgender issues and human sexuality. She works with employers and federal agencies to facilitate inclusion of transgender people in their workplaces, and conducts awareness trainings for the staff of service providers. In addition, she edits and publishes IFGE’s magazine, Transgender Tapestry. She began her work with the organization in 1998, and has served as Executive Director since 2002.

"Changing Perspectives Of Relationships"
by Bree Hartlage - Chairwoman of the International Foundation for Gender Education (IFGE)

Many transgender people wonder and worry about their prospects for relationships associated with transition. What I want from a relationship as a woman is different from what I wanted previously. Interestingly, I have observed that while some things have changed, others have not, i.e., the perspectives I had about relationships – those which were instilled in me through “male socialization” still persist.  This seminar will offer an opportunity to discuss some of the fundamental elements I believe to be necessary for one to be ready to be in a quality relationship; honesty, openness and willingness.

Bree Hartlage is an advocate of equal human rights to all, with specific interest in promoting acceptance for Transgender people everywhere through education. Ms. Hartlage earned a Masters of Public Administration from Indiana University (2004) and a Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering from the University of Louisville (1980). Ms. Hartlage is a US Army veteran. Ms. Hartlage is a career federal civil servant, with over 30 years of service working for the Department of the Navy as an engineer. Ms. Hartlage has served as a board member of Lambda Aloha (Kauai, HI), INTRAA (Indiana) and of IFGE.

This workshop will instruct participants on how to legally change their names in Pennsylvania and correct the gender markers on their major identity documents.  The instructor will guide participants through a sample fill-in-the-blank name change petition that they can later use to draft their actual petitions to file with the court.  This workshop will also provide an overview of current advocacy efforts related to transgender people’s access identity documentation.  Participants will leave this workshop with an understanding of how to correct their own identity documents and how to get involved in ongoing efforts to change transphobic state policies related to identity documentation.

Natalie Hrubos is an attorney with Littler Mendelson where she represents and counsels management clients in all aspects of labor and employment law. Prior to joining the firm, Natalie worked in the legal clinic at Equality Advocates Pennsylvania where she helped low-income transgender people obtain legal name changes and correct their identity documents. She received her J.D. from Temple University Beasley School of Law where she served as Editor-in-Chief of Temple Political & Civil Rights Law Review.

In this workshop, we will discuss the daily use of products to minimize and reverse the effects of aging as well as laser hair removal applications and advantages.  We will also open the floor to questions from the audience  regarding skin care, hair removal, and facial rejuvenation/liquid face lifts.

Greg S. Forsyth, PA-C is a graduate of the University of Nebraska Medical School with Bachelors and Masters degrees in Physician Assistant Studies.  As a Nationally Certified Physician Assistant, Greg utilized his skills in the United States Air Force's Dermatology, Internal Medicine, and Family Practice clinics.  Prior to joining the Center for Cosmetic Dermatology, he worked within a solo Dermatology practice for over three years, where he performed cosmetic enhancements and treated general dermatology conditions.  His expertise and passion for incorporating the latest lasers, fillers, and techniques enable him to correct and minimize the effects of aging, acne, and sun damage.  He is a cosmetic and dermatology certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) with over 14 years of experience.  Greg is the sole PA-C within the Center for Cosmetic Dermatology, York PA providing chemical peels, laser rejuvenation of all lesions, Botox/Dysport, and all facial fillers (Restylane, Juvederm, Radiesse).

This participatory workshop explores the philosophical, historical and spiritual reality of those of us who are neither men, nor women…but both. While we usually refer to ourselves as Transgender, and while we conform to the gender binary in our need to survive financially and socially, we truly are both/and, not either/or.

Jeanine Ruhsam has struggled relentlessly for many years as s/he’s sought to find peace living life as a dual gendered person S/he's suffered the pain that so many have from being out as a trans person, and yet s/he's been lifted to her highest at the same time. A parent, a divorcee, a successful business person of a few careers, s/he lives happily with hir spouse Julia in Central PA. Not all man and not all woman, she strives daily to balance the gift of being BOTH/AND, living hir life in both genders. S/he is the '06-'10 President of TransCentralPA and the co-chair of the Keystone Conference.

Utilizing power point, Dr. Leis will demonstrate and explain classic prototypes of masculine and feminine facial features. He will discuss a variety of options for feminizing facial features and demonstrate that in the majority of cases, excellent results can be obtained without extensive, expensive, and high risk cranio-facial surgery. Several cases are shown demonstrating excellent natural results from selective and customized facial feminization procedures.

Sherman N. Leis, D.O., F.A.C.O.S. is Professor and Chairman of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Residency Program Director in Plastic Surgery at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He is also Director and Chief Surgeon of the Philadelphia Center for Transgender Surgery. The Center represents a team of more than thirty professionals who have expertise in servicing the surgical and non-surgical needs of transgender individuals. It is one of the few comprehensive centers of its type in the United States. He is a founding member and Past President of the ACOS Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and a member of the Board of Governors of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons.

Joanne and nearly all other transgendered folk have suffered greatly for many years because of mountains of guilt derived from everything ever learned in Church.  Messages on Radio or Television or discussions around the dining table by parents and family also seem to contribute to distancing the transgendered from matters of faith.  Joanne will attempt to provide a Bible based challenge to the world view held by many religious conservatives that ultimately condemn the transgendered. The foundation of the presentation is the personal journey of reconciling her gender identity to the Bible.

Although Joanne is listed as semi-retired she remains very active as the President and CEO of a small yet growing multi-media/Internet services company. In addition to management of day to day operations she supervises a team of sub-contractors with specific specialties such as Graphic Design, Art Design, Media Relations, and Copy Writing. Living in stealth, she transitioned in 2001 and also is very active in a number of ministries in her church.

Dr. McGinn will discuss her vision for regional transgender care and emphasize the advantages of rewarding trans-friendly cities with our business in the current economy. She will share the current offerings of Papillon Gender Wellness Center as well as her current surgical results for Ring Flap Metoidioplasty, Simple Metoidioplasty, Scrotoplasty, Chest surgery, and basic healthcare for transmen. This talk is useful for the FtM community. She will also be available for general questions following her talk, but for in depth consultation, an appointment is recommended at our nearby office. Consult appointments can be made by contacting the office at 215-693-1199.

Dr. McGinn is a plastic surgeon whose formal training was tailored specifically to transgender surgery. Her surgical practice includes FtM/MtF genital surgery, “FFS”, FtM “Top” surgery as well as general cosmetic surgery. She is the founder of Papillon Gender Wellness Center in New Hope, Pennsylvania. PGWC is a gender wellness co-op that includes many professional services in addition to Plastic Surgery, offered in a trans-friendly environment. Her focus is to promote the importance of a holistic approach to helping gender variant individuals. Her practice includes an emphasis on preventive medicine, aftercare, research, community outreach, and therapeutic support systems. Of special interest to Dr McGinn are long-term outcomes to gender confirmation surgery and contra-hormone therapy as they relate to improved quality of life and sexual health for gender variant individuals. Since her own transition in 2000, she has been an activist and speaker on many aspects of gender variant issues. She is frequently called upon by television and print media to comment on transgender topics. In addition to her practice, she devotes time to many Universities and Medical Schools in order to train our future health care providers about the fascinating field of transgender medicine.
 

I will cover makeup application techniques to bring out the female in any male. This will include, foundation application, enhancing the shape of your face with contouring and highlighting, eyeshadow application, including how to do a smokey eye, and how to get that pouty looking lip. Attendees should bring their pad and paper to take notes, and I will answer any questions throughout the presentation.

Amanda, a professional makeup artist and licensed cosmetologist, runs her “True Colors Make Up Artistry” salon in Bethlehem, PA, and also travels to many transgender events nationally where she lectures on makeup and skin care for Transgender people. She is nationally known for her craft in bringing out the best of her client’s features, tastefully and stylishly.

The workshop will explore the issues in transgender medicine.  It will include a didactic presentation with numerous case examples and a discussion of the medical evaluation and hormonal treatment for both male to female and female to male individuals.

At the completion of this session the participant should be able to:

• Describe medical evaluation for transgender individuals

• Discuss the hormonal treatment options and protocols

Dr. Richard Levine is the Chief of the Division of Adolescent Medicine and Eating Disorders at Penn State- Hershey Medical Center. He is experienced in Trans-medicine and sees a number of children, adolescents and young adults for HRT and medical follow-up. He is pleased to accept any pediatric patients and patients in their teens and twenties for this medical care. He also see adults through age 50 for the medical management of an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia which can sometimes be present in Trans patients. His practice is located in a private office building across the street from the medical center in Hershey with easy access and privacy.

Connie Valentine, owner of The Hair Technicians, will instruct attendees on how to choose a wig that looks right, fits well and how to care for it. She’ll explain many of the options in available in wig selection, from style to construction to price. Along with her assistant Alicyn Wray she’ll then discuss the many options available in hair replacement- when you desire to “have your own hair”.

Connie Valentine is the owner of The Hair Technicians in Camp Hill, PA, minutes off the I81/I83/581 junctions. She established this business 28 years ago, and has been in the hair replacement industry for 40 years. She attended and still attends many classes to further her education in all aspects of hair design and artistry.  Connie has designed wigs and hair additions for rock bands, executives, children, and anyone with hair or hair loss problems. Connie has had many transgender clients over the years and welcomes our community with open arms. She loves being a problem solver and helping people in all aspects of hair design.  Every client of The Hair Technicians is treated with courtesy, and all consultations and treatments are done in private rooms.

In the larger political socioeconomic realm, and even within our own 'GLBT' culture, the T is too often misunderstood, stigmatized and marginalized. But all is not lost! There is no greater cure for ignorance than education, and there are no better educators about transgender issues than transgender-identified people. This workshop will provide the background and tools you need to share your own story, starting with reflection and preparation, and ending with a polished presentation. Emphasis will be placed on how to share your story in three forms of media, ranging in nature from most anonymous to most public: the Written Word, the Internet Word, and the Spoken Word. You will enjoy a warm-up writing exercise, and will take home handouts with the workshop outline and resources for further consideration. Remember: You do not have to be an expert in order to be yourself, and now more than ever, being yourself and sharing your story is the most empowering weapon against the troubles we face.

Milo Primeaux is a gay transman, and serves as a board member and treasurer of TransOhio. In this role, he regularly speaks to college classrooms and corporate diversity committees on a variety of transgender topics, and participates in the planning of the annual TransOhio Transgender and Ally Symposium. Milo is also a graduate of the United Way’s Pride Leadership Program, which prepares LGBT professionals to serve on non-profit boards and committees. Previously, Milo founded and directed the Mount Holyoke Brothers and Others (MoHoBOs), a transgender student organization on the country’s longest-running all-women’s college campus. During his time there, he helped initiate the first official dialogue about trans-students with the administration, faculty, staff and student body. As a recent alum of the Ohio State University, Milo is currently preparing to pursue a career in law and non-profit management.

Leah Basarab resides in York, PA and began her full time transition in May of 2009. Her main passion is writing and musical expression. Leah is currently involved in one band and a solo musical/spoken word project. She has been writing mostly prose and free verse poetry pieces since childhood. Leah adores anything sincerely artistic and has also maintained a lengthy career in health care. She is the founder of the Gender Edge Collective which is developing in the Lancaster/Harrisburg region as well as in Philadelphia. Leah is a blossoming and soulful advocate/activist for the GLBT community and truly hopes to see the potential of the Gender Edge movement come to fruition.

No one is born a "lady" it is something that must be learned. In this workshop on deportment you will learn what your mother should have taught you if you were raised as a girl. Following these lady rules will cause you to appear more feminine and beautiful. Topics include beauty tips, dressing appropriately, good manners, gracefulness and being gracious.

Lady Ellen is the Owner and Operator of Le Femme Finishing School, the only fully service Male to Female Transformation Studio and Charm School in New Jersey. Lady Ellen has been a teacher for 17 years and has been using her skills to teach feminine arts to the cross-dressing and transgendered community since 2005.  She has presented workshops to transgendered groups in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Virginia.

Dr. McGinn will discuss her vision for regional transgender care and emphasize the advantages of rewarding trans-friendly cities with our business in the current economy. She will share the current offerings of Papillon Gender Wellness Center as well as her current surgical results for Vaginoplasty,  Breast Augmentation, and FFS as well as basic healthcare for transwomen. This talk is useful for the MtF community. She will also be available for general questions following her talk, but for in depth consultation, an appointment is recommended at our office. Consultation appointments can be made by contacting the office at 215-693-1199.

Dr. McGinn is a plastic surgeon whose formal training was tailored specifically to transgender surgery in addition to all aspects of both General and Plastic surgery. Since her own transition in 2000, she has been an activist and speaker on gender variant issues. She is the founder of Papillon Gender Wellness Center, a comprehensive gender support center that includes a variety of professional services in addition to plastic surgery. The focus of Dr. McGinn's practice is not only providing plastic and reconstructive surgery services, but also to promote the importance of a holistic approach to the care of gender variant individuals to include preventive medicine, research, community outreach, primary care and therapeutic support systems. Of special interest to Dr. McGinn are long-term outcomes to gender confirmation surgery and contra-hormone therapy as they relate to improved quality of life and sexual health for gender variant individuals.

Multiple options for breast augmentation will be discussed and demonstrated including choice of incisions, shape and size of implant, saline versus silicone, placement of implants above or below the muscle, etc. Dr. Leis will also discuss his technique of one-stage vaginoplasty utilizing the penile inversion technique, neo-clitoris construction, and scrotal skin graft to increase vaginal depth. Multiple recent cases will be demonstrated to show the natural results obtained with these techniques.

Sherman N. Leis, D.O., F.A.C.O.S. is Professor and Chairman of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Residency Program Director in Plastic Surgery at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He is also Director and Chief Surgeon of the Philadelphia Center for Transgender Surgery. The Center represents a team of more than thirty professionals who have expertise in servicing the surgical and non-surgical needs of transgender individuals. It is one of the few comprehensive centers of its type in the United States. He is a founding member and Past President of the ACOS Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and a member of the Board of Governors of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons.

"Meet our Family"
Susan Andrea Collins, MA - TransFM.org

Come take a tour and meet so many of your family worldwide. Join Susan as she introduces you to the people she has gotten to know doing research for the news show she broadcasts on TransFM.org. ""It has been such an honor to get to know so many beautiful people all over the world. People you never hear about here in the states. and I would like my trans family to know them also.

Since obtaining her clinical degree in Counseling Psychology at Boston College in 1986, Sue Collins has worked in a wide variety of settings with a great diversity of people and life issues.

Within the past six years in Philadelphia, Sue has served as coordinator of Mazzoni Center’s Trans Health Program, on the Mayor’s Task Force on Homeless Services and Sexual / Gender Minorities and the Task force on Sexual Abuse, The Planning Committee for the Philadelphia Trans Health Conference for three years, one as in-coming Executive Chair Person, as well as other committees and advocacy positions.

Sue continues her work as a gender identity specialist, does extensive educational and advocacy work in mainstream venues and currently produces a weekly news show for Transfm.org. Sue herself is a transexual woman, cherishing the majik of who she is. The concepts and issues explored in her work reflect the needs of both her and those she has met, loved and come to know, professionally and personally, during her own journey.

This workshop, whose panel will be lead by Dr. Michele Angello, Dr. Maureen Osborne and Dr. R. Levine is intended for community leaders, educators, and caring allies to work together to develop a protocol for a program to be used for mentoring and assisting transgender youth. While similar programs have been successfully used for Lesbian & Gay youth, the issues unique to transgender youth have cried out for the need this workshop seeks to address.

This participatory workshop will explore issues faced by couples--married or otherwise--that contain one transgender partner. We’ll try to learn what techniques and methods can help committed relationships survive the “T storm”.

Transgender Individuals know that their cross identity is fixed at a very early age. What is the medical evidence to date for gender variance being associated with the prenatal formation of our brains? There is strong evidence that the numbers of hormonal receptors are different in male and female brains. There is evidence for prenatal endocrine disruptors affecting the formative brain. What has been shown to cause these differences? Intersex conditions have been shown to be caused by single chromosomal gene location changes resulting in ambiguous or cross sex genitalia. How do they identify despite their cross hormonal milieu? Research has shown chromosomal differences in gender variant individuals. Is the “feminized, masculinized or transgender brain” determined by differences in brain hormonal receptors before the powerful sex hormones are released prenatally? While significant male-female behavioral differences can be noted at birth, what is responsible for the “continuous spectrum “ of gender identity that we experience postnatally?

Brain gender identity is determined very early in fetal development, but gender expression, expressed as behaviors requires hormonal, environmental, social and cultural interactions, which evolve with time. One cannot deny the profound effects of Testosterone, Estradiol and other steroids on genital and brain differentiation in-utero or their effects on behavior from birth or the physical and mental cross gender changes caused by exogenous hormones, but gender identity is determined before and persists in spite of these effects. Is it important for you to understand why gender variance is not a “choice”?

Dr. Cerise Richards is a retired Urological Surgeon with a fifty-year understanding of Transgenderism. She was a former Clinical Professor of Urology and Chief of Urology at the DC VA Medical Center, where she has cared for Transgendered patients. She is the former Medical Writer for Transgender Forum, Renaissance Community News and Transgender Education Association, where she has written over 50 medical articles. In 2009 she chaired a Symposium at the American Psychiatric Association's Annual Meeting entitled "The Neurobiological Evidence for Transgenderism". Twenty years of Scientific Research in humans has lead to the inescapable conclusion that Brain Gender Identity is determined in the womb and fixed at birth. She showed in multiple studies how Transgender Brains think, smell, and hear like the opposite sex. Internationally accepted guidelines were presented and subsequently published by the Endocrine Society as a Clinical Practice Guideline for the Endocrine Treatment of Transsexuals. Her presentation will continue with the accumulating genetic evidence for her conclusion that "Transgenders are Born to Think as Male and Female, so they are neither Male nor Female solely, but Both."

The workshop will explore the medical care for transgender youth- including children teens and young adults. We will start with a didactic presentation with numerous case examples. We will then proceed to a discussion of the many complex medical, psychological and social issues that are involved.  At the completion of this session the participant should be able to:

• Review the theories about the biological causes of transgender feelings and the controversies regarding the psychiatric criteria and diagnosis
• Describe evaluation of children, teens and young adults with transgender feelings
• Discuss the treatment options and protocols

Dr. Richard Levine is the Chief of the Division of Adolescent Medicine and Eating Disorders at Penn State- Hershey Medical Center. He is experienced in Trans-medicine and sees a number of children, adolescents and young adults for HRT and medical follow-up. He is pleased to accept any pediatric patients and patients in their teens and twenties for this medical care. He also see adults through age 50 for the medical management of an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia which can sometimes be present in Trans patients. His practice is located in a private office building across the street from the medical center in Hershey with easy access and privacy.

The transgendered community is often the target of violent hate crimes. This workshop will give you some ideas of how to handle yourself in the event that you or your loved ones are targeted for brutality. There are simple moves and states of awareness that can help you stack the deck in your favor in the threat of immanent violence. A little bit of knowledge can mean the difference between life and death.

Nathaniel Wolfe is a black belt instructor of Bai Lung Kung Fu and Tai Chi at the Carlisle Kung Fu Center. He is also a certified yoga teacher in the Himalayan Tradition and the owner of the Carlisle Hatha Yoga Center. He has spent the better part of the last decade studying martial arts, martial strategy, movement, self-awareness, and yoga, as well as the meditative techniques and philosophical aspects of eastern traditions.

Mr. Wolfe graduated with a Bachelor's degree, double majoring in English/Writing, and History, with a minor in philosophy from Messiah College in 1994. He has lived in the mountains of Perry County with his wife since 1997.

Mr. Wolfe was involved in Renaissance LSV chapter in the late 90's and early 2000's, where he also served on the board and edited the monthly newsletter. In the recent past, he has served on the Board of Directors of Common Roads.

How we feel about ourselves affects virtually everything we think, say and do. Our society attempts to tell us that we are not good enough, pretty enough, skinny enough, rich enough or smart enough. Sometimes we feel like we just don’t fit in because we lack the confidence to live a passionate life.

The good news is that confidence is a skill that anyone can learn no matter what their background is. The SELF CONFIDENCE ROCKS!!! program is specifically designed around four time-tested principles that when implemented, will bring about dramatic, exciting results.

Please join us for this dynamic program and learn the secrets to improved SELF CONFIDENCE now!!!

Do you ever wonder?
• Are some people born with more confidence than others?
• Why do I lack confidence now?
• What strategies can I implement immediately that will help me with my lack of confidence?
• How can I practice being more confident?
• Should I have confidence goals?
• Who can help me with my confidence when the going gets rough?

Are you ready to ROCK on?

Casey Sheehe serves as the District Sales Manager for Avon in the Central Pa area and is responsible for over 400 independent sales representatives. Her role as a leader, trainer and visionary has helped women all over the world understand their unique potential and take the first step toward living a passionate life.

As the company for women, Avon’s mission is to empower women and men from all walks of life and help them create better lives for themselves and their families. Avon, founded in 1886, is the world largest direct seller with more than 5 million independent representatives in 100 countries, delivering world class beauty products to customers all over the globe. Avon success is measured by their leadership in the global marketplace and in the human spirit; how many lives they change and how many doors they open up.

Casey, in cooperation with Avon, has delivered her one-of-a-kind nationally recognized program titled "SELF CONFIDENCE ROCKS!!!" Her passion and enthusiasm are unparallel as she inspires and educates men and women on how to develop effective sales and self confidence skills. Consequently, they can live life on their own terms and create financial freedom with unlimited earnings potential.

Casey will challenge you to be the very best you can be, to live life to the fullest and dare to make your dreams a reality.

A discussion of the physical and learned differences in communication modes among men and women with an emphasis on the issues facing transgendered individuals. Demonstration and practice suggestions for M/F and F/M transgendered individuals will be given. One of the goals of the presentation is to make you an educated consumer so that you can go back to your home community and assist local Speech/Language therapists in assisting you with your transition.

Dr. Heuer is a Full Professor at Temple University Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. Supervisor of the Temple University Voice Clinic. Adjunct Faculty at Drexel University Otolaryngology Department. Research Assistant at the American Institute for Voice and Ear Research. Voice Clinician with experience with working with the Crossdressing and Transgendered communities since 1970.

People consult a trans-aware therapist for many different reasons, and with varying levels of previous knowledge from reliable and unreliable sources. Some are deeply skeptical of the mental health profession and are merely asking for a referral letter for surgery. Some have reached a level of self-acceptance, but need help in sorting out available options for increased comfort and wholeness, or help in facing family/relationship challenges. Some have a sense of gender discomfort, but have no idea what it may mean or what they might do about it. In this dialogic workshop, we will discuss the concept of a gender spectrum, the search for self-knowledge and self-acceptance, options for coming to terms with gender identity, and the struggle to feel entitled to take the steps necessary for gender wholeness, especially when there is a hostile reception in one’s social environment. Case examples will be presented, and participants will be invited to share their own gender journeys.

Dr. Maureen Osborne is a licensed psychologist with over 25 years experience as a therapist, specializing in gender identity issues for the last 16 years. She earned her Ph.D. degree in Clinical Psychology at the University of Missouri-St. Louis in 1984, and is a member of the American Psychological Association, the Philadelphia Society of Clinical Psychologists, the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), and Division 44 of the APA, which deals with GLBT issues.
Dr. Osborne’s theoretical orientation and training in Contextual Therapy has led to an interest in relational ethics and justice dynamics as they apply to the transgender journey. She has presented talks and workshops at many different national and international gender conferences, and appeared in the MSNBC documentary, "A Change of Gender." She has contributed a monthly column for the online publication TG Forum called “Checking in with Osbo’s Bridge Club. Dr. Osborne maintains a private practice in Malvern, PA, and is an adjunct therapist with the Papillon Gender Wellness Center in New Hope, PA.

When contemplating a gender transition, the prospect of losing family, friends, jobs, and social status can be overwhelming. In the words of the fiery Irish political activist, “To gain that worth having, it may be necessary to lose everything else”. Are massive personal losses a necessary outcome of transition? This interactive workshop will focus on strategic preparation for minimizing loss as you begin the gender journey. What worked for you? What didn't? Come and share your stories.

Dr. Maureen Osborne is a licensed psychologist with over 25 years experience as a therapist, specializing in gender identity issues for the last 16 years. She earned her Ph.D. degree in Clinical Psychology at the University of Missouri-St. Louis in 1984, and is a member of the American Psychological Association, the Philadelphia Society of Clinical Psychologists, the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH), and Division 44 of the APA, which deals with GLBT issues.
Dr. Osborne’s theoretical orientation and training in Contextual Therapy has led to an interest in relational ethics and justice dynamics as they apply to the transgender journey. She has presented talks and workshops at many different national and international gender conferences, and appeared in the MSNBC documentary, "A Change of Gender." She has contributed a monthly column for the online publication TG Forum called “Checking in with Osbo’s Bridge Club. Dr. Osborne maintains a private practice in Malvern, PA, and is an adjunct therapist with the Papillon Gender Wellness Center in New Hope, PA.

Alexis Lake is a Licensed Social Worker specializing in individual, couples, partners, and family therapy She works in private practice in Malvern and in Lititz, PA. As a graduate of Bryn Mawr College's School of Social Work and Social Research specializing in Clinical Social Work she is currently working with a broad spectrum of clients. Among her areas of expertise are loss, grief, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, sexual orientation and sexual identity as they relate to the individual, as well as his or her friends and loved ones. She has had experience working with acute mental illness in a hospital setting and has interned as a therapist for a center city Philadelphia clinic that specialized in serving the LGBTQ population.

Workplace gender transitions are as unique as the people who transition, and the organizations in which they do so. For that reason each workplace gender transition must have a unique transition plan which reflects the needs of the individual transitioning, and culture of the organization n which they will do so.
That being said, there are elements which are common to all workplace transitions. This workshop attempts to provide a model, a structure of these common elements which can be tailored to the unique needs of a given transition. Any workplace gender transition has at least four phases; Assessment, Coming Out, Preparation, and Go Live. The workshop will define which transition components should be addressed in each phase. Additionally, tips, and actions to be avoided will also be presented The workshop will present transition planning from the point of view of the tranisitoning employee AND the employer.  Time will be provided for questions and comments.

Jackie Marchwinski is recently retired after 28+ years with Johnson and Johnson. Jackie began her career at J&J in internal audit. There she conducted and supervised information systems audits, data center audits as well as traditional audits of financial procedures and records. She also participated in acquisition and divestiture audits. She eventually became Director of Auditing for the Consumer Products division of J&J Jackie has a B.S. degree in accounting. Prior to J&J she worked for Haskins and Sells ( now Deloitte Touche).Desiring to return to IT Jackie joined an internal consulting group and provided broad based consulting for J&J Consumer companies in Europe and Africa. She then became support staff for the VP & CIO of the Consumer Sector. More recently Jackie has been performing project management for large scale IT projects in the Finance Division at J&J world headquarters in NJ.
Jackie was involved with several Quality Improvement initiatives at J&J including Six Sigma efforts. Jackie has also been involved in many community outreach and charitable activities sponsored by Johnson & Johnson.
She began going to work as Jackie in August 2006, and had Sexual Reassignment Surgery in April 2008. By all accounts her workplace transition was flawless. Jackie resides in Bucks county, Pennsylvania with Eileen, her spouse of 31 years, who has been very supportive of her transition

There is no doubt that the current economic crisis is challenging and being transgender can add to those challenges when looking for work, applying for college, or even volunteering.  This course will explore various ways to keep a positive outlook while charting your path through this difficult time. Attendees will be asked to share share their stories and exchange ideas on how to maintain a positive outlook and better prepare themselves for the job interview and work place so that you can take one step closer to achieving your goals.  

James MacGregor Halleman has held various offices including Executive Vice-Chair of Renaissance National Board, NTAC National Transgender Advocacy,  Coalition National Activist Chair, Pride At Work National Diversity Chair, Lehigh Valley Renaissance Vice-Chair, and  featured presenter at various universities and colleges. He is proud of his grassroots outreach activities, and is currently planning to continue his work in post-education studies.

Coming out to your children can be one of the most difficult things any parent can imagine doing. How can you best approach your children, and help them through their own understanding of what it means for you to be transgender? The four primary things to consider are psychosocial stage of development, resiliency, timing and support network. All of these will be discussed in much greater detail during the talk. Please come prepared to share your positive outcomes with children, as well as things you wish you had done differently so that we all can learn more effective methods of helping our kids!

Dr. Michele Angello works with gender variant youth and adults. She offers individual, group and family therapy, as well as corporate education and training on a variety of issues of sexuality and has presented internationally on her work with trans-youth and working with children of transitioning parents. She facilitates several monthly support groups for transgender adults, youth and parents. Dr. Angello is often called on to speak as an expert on transgender issues to universities, corporations and the media. She has appeared on Larry King Live, the Tyra Banks Show, and various documentaries. She base her practice in Paoli, PA.

To be transgender, I believe, is neither a medical phenomena nor a psychological problem but is a spiritual awakening.  In this seminar-workshop we will explore the differences and similarities between "being religious" and "being spiritual" and the often overlooked role spirituality plays in coming to terms with being transgender.  We will include references to Native American traditions, early matiarchal and some Asian traditions.

Ken Dollarhide was born on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota and grew up on the reservation and surrounding towns in South Dakota and Nebraska.  He holds a Ph.D. in Religious Studies and is currently Dean and Professor of Philosophy at Kean University in New Jersey.

In the workshop we explore the Christian and Hebrew Scriptures looking at origins, politics, and misinterpretations of these texts as they apply to Transgendered folk. It concludes with arriving at the central message of creation, that humanity was created out of love by a divine being who is both masculine and feminine.

Rev. Patti Smith is an ordained deacon in the Catholic Apostolic Church in North America, She Pastors Sts. Francis and Clare Mission. Patti is a NY licensed Social Worker and works advocating for the rights of Transgender people in religious organizations and training police officers. Patti holds a M.S. in Organizational Leadership, an M.A. in Catholic Theology, and an M.S.W. in Social Work. Patti worked as a religious education teacher and program director for eight years. She is a retired police officer and Army National Guard Captain. Patti is the proud parent of a son and daughter both in college. Patti is the Author of "Transgender Transition Spirituality".

"Transgender Victories & Challenges"
by Mara Keisling - Executive Director of the National Center for Transgender Equality

Mara is the founding Executive Director of NCTE. A Harrisburg, Pennsylvania native, Mara came to Washington after co-chairing the Pennsylvania Gender Rights Coalition. Mara is a transgender-identified woman who also identifies as a parent and a Pennsylvanian. She is a graduate of Penn State University and did her graduate work at Harvard University in American Government. She has served on the board of Directors of Common Roads, an LGBTQ Youth Group, and on the steering committee of the Statewide Pennsylvania Rights Coalition. Mara has almost twenty-five years of professional experience in social marketing and opinion research.

Transgender youth are invisible in today’s society, and sociologists are trying to increase the visibility of these adolescents. Sociologists today are seeking insight into the lives of transgender youth in order to provide services to meet their growing needs. By transgressing gender norms during adolescence, transgender youth are drastically more susceptible to harassment and vulnerability. As more and more youth begin to identify as transgender, society should realize that these young and vulnerable individuals have needs. By learning and becoming aware of how transgender youth cope with their gender identity, research can ultimately educate society and assist transgender youths in facing the many obstacles they face during adolescence.

Teri Jo Reese of Georgia is a tran-ally and activist. She recently graduated from college with a bachelor's degree in sociology in May 2009. Teri Jo is a prospective graduate student hoping to engage in Transgender research with the intent of bringing about education and awareness.

Sensual pleasure can be one of the great joys of life. However on our journey through Genderland our bodies change and how they respond changes. This can be exciting, confusing, rewarding and disappointing. There is no guarantee you will be able to “get off” on the other side. This will be an open discussion about our new bodies, our liberated minds, and orgasmic pleasure. Come share your secrets.

Finnea Ann Wagaman AKA. “Finnie” was born and raised in York County , Pennsylvania. She is a 1987 graduate of Penn State University with a BS in Mechanical Engineering.  In October of 2005, after a lifelong struggle with Gender Identity Disorder, she transitioned publicly from male to female and began presenting, living, thriving as the woman she has been since birth. Today she continues to enjoy the love of her family as she works for the equality and rights of TBLG persons taken for granted by the general population.

This presentation compares a variety of different laser and cosmetic treatments such as hair removal, laser lipo, botox, rejuvenation treatments, etc. and show which treatments and processes provide the best results.

Laura is a a Certified Life Coach and an Esthetician with an extensive medical aesthetics background. I know the behind the scenes of laser and cosmetic treatments that you are not told up front. I have been in practice on my own and as a consultant to physicians since 1995.  I life coach men with low self esteem, gender issues, and sexual issues. I have been a life coach since 1985

Adolescence is tough enough without dealing with gender variance! Youth and the parents of gender non-conforming young people are invited to participate in this dynamic discussion about some of the systemic variables to consider when dealing with being trans and being a minor. Issues regarding dealing with doctors, schools, places of worship, relationships and extended family will be discussed during this workshop. You are invited to bring your own experiences as well as your questions.

Dr. Michele Angello works with gender variant youth and adults. She offers individual, group and family therapy, as well as corporate education and training on a variety of issues of sexuality and has presented internationally on her work with trans-youth and working with children of transitioning parents. She facilitates several monthly support groups for transgender adults, youth and parents. Dr. Angello is often called on to speak as an expert on transgender issues to universities, corporations and the media. She has appeared on Larry King Live, the Tyra Banks Show, and various documentaries. She base her practice in Paoli, PA.

This session will focus on the importance of looking good and feeling good in the proper undergarments.  It will concentrate on the “proper” fit for a bra and pitfalls that you should avoid.  Moreover, it will explain the different types of breast forms that are available to fit your specific needs and body style.  Lastly, an overview of foundations (girdles and control garments) will be reviewed to enhance your shape.

Jay Ann Intimates, a family owned business since 1955, specializes in bra fittings, lingerie, corsets, pajamas and hosiery. Today, sisters-in-law Farrell Friedenberg and Hope Bear, third generation owners/operators run the shop located in Huntingdon Valley, PA. In addition to their well-known expertise as corsetieres, (i.e. bra fitters) they are Certified Mastectomy Fitters.

Over the past four years, they have transformed the business and space of ivory and beige to one of color, warmth and energy for everyone. Farrell’s love and interest in art, combined with Hope’s passion for women’s issues are reflected in the wide offering of products for every shape, size and need. Together, Hope and Farrell, represent all of the aspects of a successful partnership, but most of all they share a passion and desire to help individuals feel and look good everyday, in their bodies.

You will learn good posture and how to change your center of gravity for a more feminine appearance and walk. Participants will have the opportunity to practice walking and to be evaluated and corrected. Walking on stairs, entering and exiting a car, sitting and standing gracefully as well as hand gestures are also included. Lady Ellen has tips about shoes, heel height and shoe styles.

Lady Ellen is the Owner and Operator of Le Femme Finishing School, the only fully service Male to Female Transformation Studio and Charm School in New Jersey. Lady Ellen has been a teacher for 17 years and has been using her skills to teach feminine arts to the cross-dressing and transgendered community since 2005.  She has presented workshops to transgendered groups in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Virginia.

Transition requires physical and emotional support from a team of healthcare providers focused on your needs.  This presentation will give you insight into the importance of choosing providers who not only know you, the client, but each other as part of your team.  This workshop is an opportunity for you to ask questions of importance to you in organizing your transition team.

Ms. Keisling is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years experience working with individuals, couples and families. She has been in practice with Riegler • Shienvold and Associates since 1993.  Ms. Keisling earned a Bachelor's Degree from Dickinson College, and received a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania.  Ms. Keisling's professional focus is on adolescent and adult populations. She works with individuals, couples, parents and teens to address areas of concern such as depression, anxiety or adjustment. In addition to her experience with women's health issues, pregnancy-related concerns, and postpartum depression, she is also interested in gender identity and the many factors that lead to healthy and satisfying relationships.

Lorraine Bock is a Family Nurse Practitioner in Primary Care s. She is a 1994 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing and has a Masters Degree in Nursing. She is currently working on her doctorate at Waynesburg University in Pittsburgh. Her practice, Bock Family Healthcare, is located in Carlisle, PA. She treats patients of all ages with a holistic focus. Additionally, she provides acute and primary healthcare at Roxbury Treatment Center - a private hospital specializing in psychiatric and substance abuse care. She also works part-time in the Emergency Department at York Hospital. She has spoken nationally on issues related to health care in the transgendered population and has been caring for transgendered individuals in the Harrisburg area since 2002.

Just like any girl growing up, whether you know it or not your sense of self was formed by watching the women around you. Years of watching, learning and emulating made some of those women your role models. It may be your mother, an aunt, a sister, a boss, a friend, or even a movie character. Just as important as fabric, cut and fit, your role models hold keys to your personal style ~ that person you‘re trying to reflect through what you wear. Finding that fundamental style will help you build a chic, workable wardrobe that gives you confidence ~ because it truly reflects you.

In this interactive workshop, we’ll help you discover those influences which, when distilled and applied, communicate to the world who you are. Then, we’ll demystify the art of dressing well:

Balance and Line ~ For many, our bodies have unique proportions that will never align with standard measurements. So, you’ll learn to create your own rules, ones that work for your body ~ from head to toe ~ to create balance and proportion in your clothes.

Fit ~ Dressing to fit your real body requires a few tricks, using tools that are many women’s best kept secrets. Learn them and look great, too!

Details ~ You’ll learn how to assess your assets ~ and what you want to play down. Learn to shop with confidence knowing what colors, fabrics, necklines, sleeves, lengths and embellishments work on you.

Putting it Together ~ You’ll learn how to feel truly confident in any setting, knowing that you fit in, yet stand out, with a style that is uniquely you.

Kate is a relaxed, confident transgender woman whose first job as a woman was as sales associate for the Women’s Better Sportswear department at Hecht’s. As she learned about herself as a woman, she helped other women learn about themselves and their unique beauty. In a 10-year stint that saw Hecht’s become Macy’s and Kate become manager of all of Women’s Ready to Wear, Kate dressed hundreds of women and produced scores of fashion shows for women of all ages.

Currently, Kate manages the customer service team for DHC USA, Inc., the American subsidiary of DHC Corporation, Japan’s No. 1 direct-mail skincare company. DHC is a leading direct-to-consumer provider of luxury beauty products, including skincare, body care and makeup items, as well as delicious gourmet food. DHC products are available by catalog and through www.DHCcare.com.

A key concept in finding fulfillment in life is balance. Finding it is difficult. Keeping it seems almost impossible. How can you prevent your “T-ness” from becoming an all-consuming poison pill in your life? In your relationships? In your career? This unique workshop will provide some healthy thoughts and strategies to consider.

Donna Rose is a well-known author, speaker and advocate on transgender and transsexual issues. Her website, www.donnarose.com,  is also a well-known source of information and support for and about the transgender community

In “Young and Trans”, we will address the following aspects and struggles unique to those transitioning at a young age:

--Adjusting to school/college during transition
--Coming out to parents
--Starting hormones, gaining consent from Parents/Guardians
--Sexuality as it relates to transition
--Any other issue that may be brought to attention

This is an open forum style workshop, where these issues and more can be talked about and shared by the facilitator and participants. Sharing our experiences with others helps BOTH people. Sharing is NOT mandatory, however is encouraged.