The Mental Health Counseling of LGBTQ+ Muslims Toolkit
is culturally competent toolkit training program consisting of 8 modules that can be used to train individuals in the formal and informal mental health sectors to compassionately and appropriately work with LGBTQ+ Muslims.
The toolkit serves to inform those interested on Islam’s stance on sexual diversity, encourage cultural competency while working with LGBTQIA+ Muslims, and introduce different therapeutic interventions they can utilize in their work with this at-risk population.
The workshop modules center on culturally competent and compassionate care and will also feature situational case studies to help LGBTQIA+ Muslims come out, as well as best practices to address family dynamics.
The Training
By attending this course participants will gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly within Muslim communities. They will develop culturally competent skills to support LGBTQ+ Muslims in reconciling their faith and sexuality through the lens of a compassionate and merciful faith. Additionally, participants will learn strategies, insights, and reflections on navigating difficult conversations about coming out, enhancing professional practices and fostering empathetic, inclusive environments.
The Training Modules
About the Toolkit Creator
Afnan Elmaghrabi is a dedicated mental health professional with extensive experience in supporting diverse populations through various life challenges. Her journey in mental health services began as a graduate intern at Casa Youth Shelter in Los Alamitos, where she worked with under-served minorities, including homeless and runaway youth residing in a group home. This population often faced significant struggles such as addiction, gang violence, mental health issues, and family discord, all of which intensified their existing mental health conditions.
Following this, Afnan served as an Associate Marriage and Family Intern at CCS/Calworks for Pathways by Molina. In this clinic, she primarily assisted low-income Hispanic single parents who were beneficiaries of Medi-Cal insurance and government assistance programs aimed at improving their educational and employment opportunities.
Her career then expanded into several treatment centers where she provided care for individuals dealing with substance abuse, eating disorders, and codependency. These roles allowed her to develop a comprehensive understanding of various mental health conditions and the intricacies involved in treating them.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Afnan transitioned into private practice, utilizing telehealth platforms to continue serving a diverse clientele through Kaiser and Blue Cross-Blue Shield Insurance. Her client base has included individuals with symptoms of PTSD, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, unhealthy attachment styles, and gender dysphoria. In this capacity, she has focused on psychoeducation and the implementation of evidence-based practices to help clients manage their conditions effectively.
In addition to her professional work, Afnan is deeply committed to community service, reflected in her volunteer efforts with various non-profit organizations. She has supported parents from low socio-economic backgrounds, providing them with the necessary tools and resources to improve their family dynamics and overall well-being.
Currently, Afnan is passionate about spreading awareness and promoting inclusivity for LGBTQ+ Muslims. Her dedication to this cause ties into her broader mission of fostering resilience, mental health awareness, and inclusivity across all populations she serves. Through her diverse experiences and compassionate approach, Afnan continues to make a significant impact in the field of mental health and beyond.
This project, including the production of the toolkit and the in person training session, was made possible by generous funding from the Robert Ellis Simon Foundation.