LGBTQIA+ Adolescents

Despite increased visibility and civil rights in some areas, our youth continue to be targeted and can still face severe difficulties.  Not only are there the well-known adolescent stresses - school, family, peer pressure, and the beginnings of adult responsibility - but these youth also live within a still sometimes unaccepting society.

Transgender and gender nonbinary youth, and LGBTQIA+ youth more broadly, have it especially hard, as do their families.  As people come out about their gender identity and/or sexual orientation at younger and younger ages, many are experiencing a crushing dysphoria and shame that can lead to anxiety, depression, poor school achievement, self-harm, substance abuse, and acting out at home.  Parents come to me with concerns about their children, who are questioning making alterations to their bodies at a time when they are just becoming able to make such decisions.  These adolescents are desperate for support and compassionate care.

I work with individuals and families, sometimes meeting with the adolescent, sometimes meeting with their parents or other family members so as to help all those in the circle.

I am here to help our youth live happier lives.