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Antioch University Los Angeles Receives $25,000 from Ladd Family Foundation for New LGBT Scholarships
LGBT Specialization within the Master’s of Psychology program to award new scholarships to Trans students

Culver City, CA -- February 12, 2008 -- The LGBT Specialization in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University Los Angeles today announced the receipt of a donation in the amount of $25,000 from the Ladd Family Foundation to strengthen the Transgender component of the LGBT specialization. The award will also be used to add a transgender dimension to the already existing Sandra Golvin Memorial Scholarship fund.

These funds will be aimed at developing the trans-affirmative curriculum; reaching out to prospective trans students; developing a Trans-Affirmative Psychotherapy “Teach-In” on Sunday, July 20 and providing at least two scholarships for 2008 enrollment.

“This donation will be used to advance the cause of transgender empowerment” stated Jessie Jacobson, a transgender psychotherapist who has been actively involved in shaping the specialization’s direction. An Antioch University alumnus and current LGBT Specialization “LGBT Founder,” Ms. Jacobson, was one of the driving forces behind the new grant.

Ms. Jacobson continued “I have been impressed with the dedication of the LGBT specialization in its concern for providing trans-affirmative psychotherapy, which is sorely needed in our community. I am convinced that we as trans folks cannot advance our cause unless we advance the cause of our mental health.”

The need for Trans-affirmative psychotherapy is critical within our community where trans phobia is still quite rampant – even within the mental health profession” added Dr. Douglas Sadownick, Director of the LGBT specialization. “This money will go a long way towards supporting students within our LGB T specialization become more confident, ethical and sensitive to the unique needs and challenges of trans clients.”

The LGBT specialization, which began in July 2006, is the first master’s training program in LGBT clinical psychology of its kind in the country. Students from a wide diversity of background learn how to treat the underlying causes of internalized homophobia that result in substance abuse, depression and domestic violence and to empower LGBT clients to lead lives of dignity, self-worth and romantic/sexual health. The specialization offers forums, roundtables, public lectures and art events to the larger community. An Advisory Board made up of leaders in the fields of mental health, social advocacy and entertainment supports the specialization’s ongoing commitment to LGBT mental health through educational excellence. A “Founder” group of instructors meets regularly to develop the curriculum, which follows the American Psychological Association’s standard of ethical care for the treatment of LGBT clients.

For more information on the LGBT program and available scholarships, please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

For more information on Antioch University Los Angeles, please visit www.AntiochLA.edu

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