Watching children develop and understand their sexuality and gender identity during the teen years can be challenging for any parent. To be fair, the teen years in general can be challenging as adolescents become more independent, stubborn, and emotional. Our clinicians take a culturally sensitive approach to therapy that focuses on helping parents of LGBTQ+ youth develop their strengths and improve their ability to support children and teens as they navigate this possibly challenging time. On this page, you can learn more about therapy to support parents of LGBTQ+ youth and what to expect when you work with a member of the Emerging Insights team.

Why Should Parents of LGBTQ+ Youth Consider Therapy?

Parents of any child may benefit from therapy for a variety of reasons. The parents of LGBTQ+ youth may want to visit an affirming therapist to: 

• Ask questions in a nonjudgemental environment. 

• Express honest feelings. 

• Develop better communication with their children. 

• Get accurate information about sexual orientation and gender diversity.

• Receive support for stressors related to parenting an LGBTQ+ child, including worry, grief, fear, and other strong emotions. 

• Navigate discrimination, bullying, judgement, and bias that may be directed at your child. 

• Develop a social network and support system for yourself and your child to feel safer and more stable. 

• Learn parenting skills and strategies to bond with and support your child. 

• Help your child develop stronger emotional and mental health. 

• Understand the importance of advocating for your child.

What Happens During Therapy Sessions?

Dr. Ferragamo and members of the Emerging Insights team take a strengths and systems-based approach when supporting parents. First and foremost, we know that you know your child best. This means that we help parents work toward goals for their relationship and any concerns for their child from a place of hope and optimism, respecting parents’ expertise regarding their own children. This approach to therapy seeks to build upon inner strengths and increase resourcefulness, so parents can establish and maintain strong bonds with their children or teens.

During sessions, and depending on your specific needs, we may discuss potential concerns, goals, and strategies to engage more fully with your child. It’s important to create a safe space where your LGBTQ+ youth is able to grow and thrive, and in order to do that as a parent, you can also benefit from a nonjudgmental, confidential place to process and explore your experiences. We may also model skills, and provide guidance as you become the strong and supportive parent your child needs.

Let’s Talk About It

Parents want what’s best for their kids, but knowing what’s right for children, understanding how to talk to them, or being able to connect with them doesn’t always come naturally. These worries can be heightened for parents of LGBTQ+ youth. If you want to improve connection with your child and navigate any potential concerns or confusions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us via email at drbrooke@emerginginsightspsych.com, over the phone at (415) 794-4377, or using our request form.